Infant dead after being shot, killed with crossbow, father faces murder charges

Patrick Proefriedt, 26, of Nineveh, NY, has been charged with second-degree murder, second-degree attempted murder, and first-degree criminal contempt, according to Broome County police.

On Monday, Proefriedt allegedly fired a crossbow at his wife who was holding their 3-week-old daughter Eleanor M. Carey during an argument. The crossbow struck through the baby's upper torso and hit the child's mother, Megan Carey, in the chest. The incident killed Eleanor, and Megan was transported to Wilson Hospital to be treated for her injuries, according to police documents.

Proefriedt has a history of domestic abuse and was violating a stay away order when he committed the "senseless attack."

"This is one of the most heartbreaking and senseless crimes committed in this community in recent memory," Sheriff Fred Akshar said. "Our thoughts are with the family of this innocent 3- week-old girl. I commend the quick and decisive action of our Law Enforcement division in responding to this tragedy and ensuring Mr. Proefriedt did not escape justice."

The investigation states that Proefriedt allegedly removed the bolt and attempted to stop his wife from calling 911. He then fled the scene in a red 2016 Dodge Ram pickup truck before responding deputies arrived. Deputies located the weapon and attempted lifesaving measures but Eleanor was pronounced dead at the scene.

Proefriedt was arrested following a multi-agency manhunt, which included the Broome County Sheriff's Office, New York State Police, and Chenango County Sheriff's Office, who located him in the woods after deploying aerial drones.

The investigation remains ongoing and Proefriedt is currently in custody of the Broome County Sheriff's Office while he awaits arraignment.