Novacene child in critical condition after brutal beating by stepfather

A 5-year-old boy is in critical condition and fighting for his life at Pirogov Hospital in Sofia after being brutally beaten by his stepfather in the village of Novacene. The child, who is in a medically induced coma and on mechanical ventilation, suffered severe injuries including a traumatic brain injury, broken ribs, and a brain hemorrhage. He was emergency-transported via medical helicopter from Stamen Iliev Hospital in Montana to Sofia due to the severity of his condition.

The 24-year-old suspect has been detained and faces charges of causing grievous bodily harm under circumstances of domestic violence, which carries a potential prison sentence of 3 to 15 years. Investigations by the Botevgrad District Prosecutor's Office reveal that this may not be an isolated incident; local officials and reports suggest the child had been subjected to violence previously, including an incident approximately six weeks ago.

Local residents and the mayor of Novacene have raised concerns regarding the suspect's alleged drug use and potential failures in social service intervention. The investigation is ongoing as authorities examine the history of domestic calls and social welfare reports involving the family.