A tragic incident unfolded in Nineveh, New York, where a 26-year-old father, Patrick Proefriedt, stands accused of fatally injuring his 3-week-old daughter with a crossbow bolt during a domestic dispute. The incident occurred early Monday morning during an argument with his wife. According to the Broome County Sheriff's Office, Proefriedt allegedly aimed the crossbow at his wife while she was holding the infant, Eleanor Carey. The bolt struck the baby in the upper torso before hitting the mother in the chest.

Following the incident, Proefriedt allegedly attempted to prevent his wife from contacting emergency services and fled the scene in his pickup truck. He was later apprehended less than a mile away after his vehicle became stuck. Tragically, the infant was pronounced dead at the scene, while the mother was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Sheriff Fred Akshar described the event as a heartbreaking and senseless crime, expressing condolences to the family. He also commended law enforcement for their swift response and apprehension of the suspect. This incident follows a recent social media post by Proefriedt, proudly displaying a picture of his newborn daughter just days before the tragedy. The Sheriff's Office confirmed a history of domestic disputes between Proefriedt and the victim, including an active order of protection against him.

Proefriedt is now facing serious charges, including second-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and first-degree criminal contempt for violating the order of protection. Nineveh is located approximately three hours northwest of New York City.