Child died from injuries to head, mother’s boyfriend arrested

Richland County deputies arrested a man they believe caused a child’s death earlier this week.

Deputies responded to Palmetto Health Richland Hospital 11:30 a.m. Tuesday to investigate a possible child abuse case concerning a 1-year-old female in the intensive care unit, according to a news release from the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

The child died from her injuries Thursday.

Sheriff Leon Lott said Todd Taylor, 27, was at 2505 Crofton Way alone with the daughter of his girlfriend Tuesday and allegedly inflicted blunt force trauma to her head.

The mother rushed home from work after receiving a phone call from Taylor about how he found the girl unresponsive. EMS then transported the girl to the hospital, where doctors discovered additional injuries to her lower body.

Deputies arrested Taylor and charged him with homicide by child abuse.

Lott encouraged anyone who sees, hears or knows about children being abused in their communities to contact law enforcement.

“We must shield our children from the emotional, sexual, neglect, and physical abuse that those with sick minds inflict upon them,” he said.

Taylor was transported to the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.