Pennsylvania father charged with stabbing 3-month-old son in 'sacrifice' attack

The baby's mother shielded the infant from further harm until first responders arrived, authorities say.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A 44-year-old Pennsylvania man has been arrested and charged with attempted homicide after allegedly stabbing his 3-month-old son and throwing the injured infant into the snow as part of a 'sacrifice', according to prosecutors. The baby's mother grabbed the child and her 9-year-old son and fled the home, but the father allegedly followed and snatched the baby from the mother's arms before throwing him into the snow. The mother used her body to shield the infant until first responders arrived and rushed the baby to the hospital in critical condition.

Why it matters

This disturbing case highlights the need for greater mental health resources and support for families, as well as the importance of swift action by law enforcement and first responders to protect vulnerable children from harm. The alleged actions of the father raise serious questions about his mental state and the potential warning signs that may have been missed prior to the attack.

The details

According to prosecutors, Michael Phillips, 44, allegedly stabbed his 3-month-old son in the abdomen after making comments about 'having to sacrifice the baby'. The mother told police that Phillips tried to stab the infant several times, but only managed to strike him once. After the alleged attack, the mother grabbed the injured child and her 9-year-old son and fled the residence. As the older son ran to get help, Phillips allegedly followed the mother outside, took the baby from her arms, and 'threw the infant in the snow'. The mother then used her own body to shield the baby from further harm until first responders arrived.

  • On February 15, 2026, police responded to a call about a stabbing at an apartment complex in Coatesville, Pennsylvania just before 11:40 a.m.

The players

Michael Phillips

A 44-year-old Pennsylvania man who has been charged with attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and other crimes after allegedly stabbing his 3-month-old son and throwing him in the snow as part of a 'sacrifice'.

The baby's mother

The mother of the 3-month-old victim who grabbed her injured child and 9-year-old son and fled the home, but was then allegedly followed by Phillips who snatched the baby from her arms and threw him in the snow. She used her body to shield the infant from further harm until first responders arrived.

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What they’re saying

“Coatesville Police and local EMS heroically worked to give this infant a chance to survive. Our thoughts go to the family during this incredibly difficult time.”

— Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe, Coatesville District Attorney (nypost.com)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Michael Phillips to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This horrific case underscores the critical need for greater mental health resources and support for families, as well as the importance of vigilance and swift action by authorities to protect vulnerable children from harm. The alleged actions of the father raise serious questions about warning signs that may have been missed prior to the attack.