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Atlantic City Man Charged in Death of 3-Month-Old Daughter
Antonio Reyes faces aggravated manslaughter charges after baby girl suffered severe head and neck injuries
Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:09am
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A 27-year-old Atlantic City man, Antonio J. Reyes, has been charged with aggravated manslaughter in the death of his 3-month-old daughter last November. Reyes initially told police the baby stopped breathing while he was feeding her, but later claimed she was accidentally injured when he tripped on a bed frame and fell. The infant suffered severe head and neck injuries and died at a hospital several days later.
Why it matters
This tragic case highlights the issue of infant mortality and the need for thorough investigations into suspected child abuse. It also raises questions about the challenges of parenting and the support systems available for new parents, especially those dealing with mental health or other challenges.
The details
According to the criminal complaint, on November 12, 2025, Reyes called 911 reporting that his infant daughter was not breathing. The baby was taken to the hospital but died several days later from severe head and neck injuries. Reyes initially told police the baby suddenly stopped breathing while he was feeding her, but later claimed she was accidentally injured when he tripped and fell. The New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency was called in and barred Reyes from visiting the baby. After the baby's death, Reyes texted the baby's mother saying he did not intentionally hurt the child and threatened to kill himself.
- On November 12, 2025, police and emergency medical personnel responded to a 911 call from Reyes' residence.
- The baby was taken to AtlantiCare Regional Medical-Center City and then airlifted to Cooper University Hospital, where she died on November 15, 2025.
The players
Antonio J. Reyes
A 27-year-old Atlantic City resident who has been charged with aggravated manslaughter in the death of his 3-month-old daughter.
L.R.
Reyes' 3-month-old daughter who died from severe head and neck injuries.
What they’re saying
“'During the initial preliminary on-scene interview of the infant's biological father, Antonio Reyes, conducted by a detective from the ACPD-Special Victim's Unit, Reyes explained that he was feeding the infant L.R. when suddenly her eyes rolled back, she turned blue, and stopped breathing.'”
— Affidavit
“'He then contacted the infant's biological mother using an iPad, and she instructed him to call 911, which he did using an upstairs neighbor's cellphone.'”
— Affidavit
“'He heard a 'metallic bang' sound, saw the infant was in distress, called for assistance, and began administering CPR to the infant.'”
— Affidavit
What’s next
Preliminary hearings for Reyes are scheduled for this week in county Superior Court. The Prosecutor's Office is asking the court to keep Reyes in custody pending trial.
The takeaway
This tragic case highlights the critical need for thorough investigations into suspected child abuse and the importance of providing adequate support systems for new parents facing challenges. It also underscores the devastating impact of infant mortality and the ongoing efforts to address this complex issue within the community.
