Tonya Hamilton, 50, faces felony child abuse charges in Madera County, California, for allegedly shaking 3-month-old Braxton Musselman on January 13, 2026, causing severe head trauma.​
Incident Response
Hamilton, a non-relative caregiver, FaceTimed Braxton’s parents claiming she fell on him and found him unresponsive, prompting her to call police. The infant underwent emergency surgery for a ruptured pupil and brain swelling so severe that surgeons removed half his skull (right side) to relieve pressure, draining over 300ml of blood across two operations.
Medical Outcome
Doctors determined injuries inconsistent with a fall but typical of shaken baby syndrome, triggering mandatory CPS and police reports. Braxton, now off sedation and breathing tube after over a week in ICU, shows minimal left-side movement and an altered cry; seizures have emerged, with uncertain long-term recovery.
Legal Status
Arrested after investigation, Hamilton was released on bond and is due in court March 9. The sheriff warns shaking even briefly risks permanent brain damage or death, urging caregivers to step away and seek help. A GoFundMe aids the family’s medical and rehab costs.
