Sad news to report.
The 2-year-old son of Minnesota Vikings star Adrian Peterson died today of injuries he suffered after allegedly being abused according to police.
South Dakota police said Joseph Robert Patterson, 27, has been charged with the aggravated battery. Joseph is the boyfriend of the infant’s mother. If convicted on the charges, both felonies, Joseph could face up to 40 years in prison and an $80,000 fine.
Soon after the news came out of the boy’s death, Adrian Peterson took to Twitter to express his gratitude to his family, fans and the “fraternity of brothers” in the NFL for their support.
“God Bless everyone and thank u so much,” he wrote.
Joseph Patterson called authorities about 5:45 p.m. Wednesday to a report that a 2-year-old was choking in his apartment. Officers arrived to find that the toddler was unresponsive, and he was rushed to a nearby hospital.
Authorities determined that the child had suffered injuries to his head consistent with abuse. Police said Patterson was the only other person in the residence at the time.
The suspect — who was given suspended sentences a year ago for simple domestic assault and violation of a domestic abuse bond, both misdemeanors — was arrested Thursday night. A judge set his bail at $750,000 cash during his initial court appearance today.
The 2-year-old’s mother is not under investigation.
Family and police have not identified the toddler by name except to say he is not Adrian Peterson Jr.
Sad…as my mom says, you have to watch the company you keep.
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