Man Charged With Felony Child Abuse After Infant Hospitalized

WAYNE COUNTY — A Pikeville man has been charged with felony child abuse following an investigation into injuries suffered by a 53-day-old infant who was hospitalized last month.

According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, the infant was brought to Wayne UNC Hospital on Nov. 4 after caregivers initially reported the child had rolled off a bed and onto the floor. The infant was later transferred to ECU Health Medical Center for further evaluation and treatment.

Medical staff reported the infant suffered head injuries and facial trauma, prompting notification of the Wayne County Department of Social Services and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. An investigation was then initiated.

As part of the investigation, deputies and social services officials conducted multiple interviews. Authorities said that during an interview with the suspect, the suspect admitted that while changing the infant’s diaper, the child began moving and crying. Investigators allege the suspect acknowledged striking the side of the infant’s head, causing the child to fall to the floor and suffer the injuries.

Based on the findings, warrants were issued for Hunter Isiah Davis, 21, of the 100 block of Leavie Drive in Pikeville. Davis was charged with one count of felony intentional child abuse inflicting serious bodily injury. He was given a $150,000 secured bond at the Wayne County Detention Center.