Mom, 19, Allegedly Filmed ‘Upbeat’ TikTok Dance in Hospital Room While Weeks-Old Baby Was Dying from ‘Abusive Head Trauma’

Two young parents from Pierce County, Washington, have been charged with second-degree murder following the tragic death of their seven-week-old son, who suffered severe injuries allegedly caused by them. Alyssa Jade Vanderbeck, 19, and Mark Anthony Labaco Clamor, 21, face serious accusations after their child, identified in court documents as N.C., was admitted to hospital in critical condition and subsequently died.

Court records indicate that N.C. passed away on March 9, after being treated at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital in Tacoma. An autopsy revealed that the infant had suffered from “abusive head trauma,” including multiple traumatic injuries such as subdural hemorrhages and retinal bleeding. Medical professionals concluded that the cause of death was consistent with homicide due to the aforementioned abuse.

As the investigation into the young couple unfolded, Clamor reportedly admitted to handling his child roughly. He detailed an incident during which he became frustrated with the child’s fussiness, describing how he jerked the baby roughly, causing the child’s head to jerk back violently. This admission was a significant element of the evidence presented to prosecutors.

Investigators have stated that the couple allegedly failed to act swiftly in calling for emergency assistance. Records show that they waited approximately one hour after recognising that their infant was in distress before contacting emergency services. When Clamor did eventually call 911, he informed the dispatcher that his son was not breathing.

Further interviews revealed alarming behaviour from Vanderbeck, who, despite the gravity of the situation, filmed a TikTok video in the hospital room while her infant was unwell. Clamor and Vanderbeck were said to be taking a shower when they heard their baby making unusual noises. Upon finding N.C. unresponsive, Vanderbeck reportedly shook him in panic and sent videos to family members showing the infant’s laboured breathing.

The parents’ actions after the child’s admission to hospital were also noted by law enforcement. Reports indicate that the police interviewed them at the hospital, where their demeanour appeared unusual given the severity of their child’s condition, raising further suspicions about their involvement.

On March 5, just one day after N.C. was first hospitalised, officers responded to concerns of potential child abuse. A social worker informed the police that the baby was not expected to survive, prompting a deeper investigation into the family’s situation. Investigators later unearthed a TikTok video posted by Vanderbeck from the hospital, wherein she can be seen dancing to upbeat music, seemingly unconcerned about her infant’s critical condition.

Both Vanderbeck and Clamor have since been held in custody, with their bond set at $1,000,000. The circumstances surrounding their charges have drawn significant public attention and concern, particularly regarding the tragic fate of their child and the alleged behaviours displayed during the crisis.

As the case develops, it remains to be seen how the judicial process will unfold and what legal representation Vanderbeck and Clamor will secure to respond to these serious charges. Currently, no statements have been released on their behalf.

The incident has sparked discussions on the importance of recognising and reporting potential child abuse. National resources, such as the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline, remind the public of the signs of abuse and the means to report it, emphasising the necessity of safeguarding vulnerable children. The hotline is available 24/7, providing support and assistance in multiple languages, ensuring that help is accessible to those who need it.