INWOOD, NY – In a heart-wrenching case that has left the Inwood community reeling, a young father stands accused of committing an unthinkable act against his own child. Twenty-year-old Marlon Rabanales is facing second-degree murder charges after allegedly confessing to violently assaulting his two-month-old daughter, Lozada, because he doubted he was her biological father.
The alleged abuse unfolded inside a home on Maple Road, where the helpless infant suffered repeated blows and was violently shaken before being thrown onto a bed. These brutal acts resulted in catastrophic injuries, including severe spinal damage and multiple fractures, some of which were in the process of healing when discovered by medical examiners.
Authorities initially responded to reports that the baby had accidentally rolled off the bed. However, the grim reality of the situation emerged when Rabanales reportedly admitted to the heinous actions that led to his daughter’s death. The tragic loss of Lozada, one of the first babies born in the area in 2025, has left a deep scar on the community.
Another child, a one-year-old boy, was also removed from the home as a precautionary measure, with authorities ensuring his safety amid the unfolding investigation. Rabanales, an undocumented immigrant from Guatemala, entered the U.S. in 2022 and has been awaiting an immigration hearing since.
Local officials have expressed their profound distress over the incident, questioning how such a tragedy could occur and emphasizing the need for systemic changes to prevent future occurrences. An ICE detainer has been placed on Rabanales, with his potential deportation hinging on the outcome of the murder case.
During his court appearance, Rabanales pleaded not guilty. While his legal team highlights his youth, the devastating impact of his alleged actions remains at the forefront of the community’s collective consciousness. Investigators have not found any involvement by the child’s mother in the abuse.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by children in situations of domestic violence and the critical importance of vigilance and intervention. As the community grapples with this heartbreaking event, the call for justice and protective measures for children grows ever stronger.