Columbia police arrest man accused of “accidentally” kicking baby, killing her

UPDATE 2 pm: In Smith’s initial arraignment on Tuesday afternoon, he was denied the request to lower his bond.

UPDATE 11:50 am: According to the probable cause statement, the baby was crying so Smith got her out of her crib and placed her on the foot of his bed.

Smith said he was having a dream, woke up and found that he had kicked the baby. The baby was not crying and was unresponsive.

UPDATE 11:15 am: Smith has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child creating a substantial risk.

ORIGINAL STORY: Columbia police arrested Cortavia Emon Smith, 20, on Monday after Boone County Joint Communications received a report of six-month-old female in cardiac arrest at the Break Time Convenience Store on Nifong Boulevard.

Police said they responded to the gas station early Monday morning, the baby was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Officers said the baby was found to have bruising to her upper torso and head.

Police said the infant was in the care of Smith, the father, at a residence in the 200 block of Switzler Street where he allegedly kicked the infant accidentally and took the baby to Break Time where another family member was present.

Smith faces possible charges of endangering the welfare of a child.