Dad accused of fatally crushing 5-week-old daughter, breaking her ribs

A Florida man is currently in custody without the possibility of bail after law enforcement alleged he was responsible for the death of his infant daughter, who was only 5 weeks old.

Dajuan Patrick, age 27, was apprehended in Jacksonville on an arrest warrant from Volusia County. 

He is charged with aggravated manslaughter connected to the death of his young daughter, 5-week-old Dahlia Siebenhaar. 

According to an announcement from the Volusia County Sheriff's Office, Dahlia passed away in December 2024 after being placed on life support due to multiple serious injuries.

More than a year after her passing, her father faced accusations of inflicting those injuries.

Dahlia was taken to the hospital on December 2, 2024, after being discovered unresponsive. 

Her condition was so critical that she needed life support. She never regained consciousness and was removed from life support on December 12, 2024, leading to her death.

Authorities reported that based on medical documents and a post-mortem examination, Dahlia experienced "significant head trauma, fractured ribs, widespread bruises, and retinal bleeding due to being vigorously shaken and handled with excessive force."

Following discussions with individuals acquainted with Dahlia's circumstances, police concluded that Patrick was known for shaking and spanking the infant. Officials stated Patrick was responsible for the fatal injuries.

Patrick was detained in Jacksonville and is being held by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. 

He is detained without the possibility of bail and is anticipated to face a charge of aggravated manslaughter involving a child in Volusia County.

Sheriff Mike Chitwood stated in the announcement, "This arrest won't bring Dahlia back or offer her the childhood she was entitled to, but today we're speaking out for her, because her life held significance."