Mom allegedly hit son with hammer because she thought they were being sold into sex slavery
10/06/2023 1:27 pm PDT
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (TCD) -- A 32-year-old mother allegedly hit and severely injured her 10-year-old son with a hammer and then stabbed herself because she was reportedly worried about being sold into sex slavery.
The Fort Wayne Police Department responded to the 1200 block of Ralph Avenue on Tuesday, Oct. 3, where they found Bethany Fleming and her son suffering from life-threatening injuries. Both were taken to the hospital, but Fleming was later discharged and subsequently arrested.
Homicide investigators have taken over the case.
According to court documents obtained by WANE-TV, Fleming called 911 and said she believed someone was going to sell her and her son into sex slavery. She reportedly told officials she "tried to stop it and I hit him in the head with a hammer."
Citing court documents, WANE reports Fleming said, "So I tried to kill him. I think I killed him, and I stabbed myself."
Police reportedly heard Fleming’s son moaning in the background during the 911 call.
Upon officers’ arrival, Fleming was allegedly standing at the door with blood coming out of her neck.
The 10-year-old required emergency surgery for a skull fracture and a brain bleed, WANE reports. According to court documents, medical staff claimed the boy’s medical condition was "touch and go." As of Friday, Oct. 6, officials have not disclosed the status of the victim’s condition.
Police charged Fleming with attempted murder following her release from the hospital. She remains in custody at the Allen County Jail on $50,000 bond.
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