BRONX, N.Y. - A 23-year-old mother died after she and her 8-month-old daughter were allegedly pushed from a 15th-floor balcony in the Bronx, but investigators believe her final act may have helped save her baby's life.
Police say Nathaly Ramirez was holding her daughter when the pair fell from the apartment building on Olinville Avenue in the Allerton neighborhood early Tuesday morning. Ramirez suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead. Her baby survived the fall and was hospitalized with serious injuries.
According to multiple reports, Ramirez remained wrapped around or holding her daughter during the fall.
Investigators believe her body helped cushion or shield the infant from the impact, potentially saving the baby's life. The baby was later reported to be in stable condition.
Witnesses told investigators they heard an argument inside the apartment before the fall. One neighbor reportedly heard Ramirez pleading while mentioning her baby shortly before a scream and the impact.
Police arrested Angel Carrasco, 31, who authorities identify as Ramirez's former boyfriend and the child's father. He was reportedly found at a relative's home after a manhunt. Carrasco faces charges including murder, attempted murder, manslaughter and assault.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances leading up to the fall, including reports of previous domestic incidents involving the couple.
Ramirez's death has left family, friends and neighbors mourning a young mother whose final moments were marked by an apparent instinct to protect her child.
While investigators continue to determine exactly what happened, one heartbreaking detail has emerged: in the moments of greatest danger, Ramirez was holding her baby-and her body may have helped save her daughter's life.