The shocking incident of a Florida man dangling and dropping a child head-first off a second-story hotel balcony in Daytona Beach has left the community in disbelief. Brandon Gilmore, 31, is now facing an aggravated child abuse charge after the terrifying incident that occurred over the weekend at the Sandlewood Resort.
According to authorities with the Daytona Beach Police Department, the traumatic event unfolded on Saturday afternoon, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. Gilmore reportedly met a woman at the hotel pool just five hours before the incident took place.
In a disturbing turn of events, Gilmore asked the woman for permission to take her son outside to play and allegedly admitted to wanting to “scare him a little bit.” Witnesses confirmed that Gilmore held the child by his legs and dangled him over the balcony before dropping him head-first from the second story.
Both Gilmore and the woman had been drinking throughout the day, adding another layer of concern to the already horrifying situation. Video surveillance captured the incident, corroborating witness statements and Gilmore’s own admission of the events.
Fortunately, the child is said to be doing well and has been discharged from the hospital with no expected long-term health issues. Despite this, Gilmore remains in custody at the Volusia County Jail without bond.
This disturbing case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety when it comes to the well-being of children. The community is left reeling from the shocking nature of the incident and is grateful that the child escaped without serious harm.
