10-month-old baby released from hospital after mom’s boyfriend hugged baby, authorities say

NEWTON COUNTY, Mo. (KY3/Gray News) – A 10-month-old baby was released from the hospital after fighting for his life after his mother’s boyfriend admitted to giving him a “bear hug,” according to authorities.

Waylon’s family says the injuries he suffered will have a lasting impact on his life.

“He basically turned into a newborn,” said his father, Tyler Burbridge.

Waylon spent about a month and a half in the hospital in critical condition.

In September, Waylon was put on a child’s sweater by his mother as she went to the bathroom in September, according to authorities.

Her then-boyfriend, Jordan Boggess, grabbed Waylon and threw him into the air, but didn’t catch him on the second throw. Boggess told authorities he then gave Waylon a big “hug” until he stopped crying.

“He basically took my son’s life. He took away my son’s future. You can’t throw a baby in the air,” Burbridge said.

Waylon’s family says his life has changed forever.

“At the moment, as far as we know, he cannot see. He can’t sit down. He can barely lift his head. He’s going to have to go through a lot of physical therapy,” Burbridge said.

Waylon’s mother, Bessie McCamish, said the focus is on Waylon’s recovery.

Boggess is charged with child abuse and will appear in court next month.

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