Three-Year-Old Fights for Life

A three-year-old boy is in critical condition tonight after authorities say he was severely beaten by his father.
Nathan Blake McCrory told his mother that his son, three-year-old Zander, had fallen down the stairs while he was watching him. McCrory’s mother took the boy to Singing River Hospital where staff called in Jackson County deputies, finding that the boy’s injuries did not match up with a fall. Zander was transported to USA Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Mobile where he is now in the intensive care unit.
McCrory did not go to the hospital and check on his son. He was arrested at his home and charged with child neglect and given no bond.
Sheriff Mike Ezell says illegal drugs were also found inside McCrory’s home and with the severity of Zander’s injuries, more charges could follow. “This is probably one of the worst cases I’ve seen in a long time. It’s something that we hate but we investigate it. It’s not good,” said Sheriff Ezell.
Family members tell News 25 Zander is still in the ICU but his neck brace has been removed, he has opened his right eye, and even reached for his mother.
Tomorrow night a prayer vigil will be held at 5:30 at the United Methodist Church at the corner of John Clark Road and Old Highway 49 in Gulfport.
If you would like to help the family, you can donate on their GoFundMe page at gofundme.com/7dys3av3.