In Michigan, Christian Holmes died from Shaken Baby Syndrome. He was four-months-old. News stories report that he was in the care of his father Mannie Holmes when he sustained the injuries that took his life. On September 12, he was taken to Bronson Methodist Hospital with injuries consistent with Shaken Baby Syndrome. He died on October 4, 2008. Police are treating his death as a homicide. Christian also had fractured ribs and clavicles that were partially healed indicating prior abuse had occurred. Christian leaves behind a twin sister, Camille.
The common signs and symptoms of SBS include poor feeding, failure to thrive, vomiting, weakness, irritability, a change in overall muscle tone, decreased alertness, seizures, pale skin color, cool skin temperature, difficulty breathing and sudden respiratory or cardiac arrest. The fontanelles may be swollen depending on the age of the infant. It is important to remember that there may be no bruising, scrapes or outward physical signs of trauma. There may be only a change in behavior as described in the first sentence. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
