Indianapolis — A frightening incident in the 3500 block of Baltimore Avenue left neighbors shaken after police say a 37‑year‑old woman intentionally sat on a 1‑year‑old child’s face late Sunday night, trying to suffocate the toddler. The suspect, identified as Kendra Lee Proctor, now faces serious felony charges including attempted murder and child molestation.
Police were called to the home around 10:30 p.m. on January 18 after reports of a possible child abuse situation. An adult witness told officers she had been in the house with Proctor earlier, watching what she described as a “Godly” movie, when Proctor began acting strangely once the film ended.
The witness said she walked into a room and froze when she saw Proctor, without pants or underwear, sitting on the baby’s face. The toddler was screaming loudly and clearly struggling to breathe. The witness immediately intervened and physically removed Proctor from the child.
First responders from emergency medical services arrived quickly. They checked the child on the scene and determined the toddler was physically unharmed before releasing her from care. Investigators say that quick thinking by the witness likely prevented a tragic outcome.
When police detained Proctor at the scene, she was read her Miranda rights. During questioning, she reportedly admitted she had tried to kill the child. Proctor allegedly told authorities she thought ending the child’s life would lead the witness to kill her. She struggled to explain her reasoning in any logical way.
Officers also learned troubling details suggesting Proctor may have behaved inappropriately toward another juvenile in the home. Audio recorded during transport reportedly included a juvenile saying Proctor had touched her inappropriately and made disturbing remarks. Proctor admitted parts of this conduct, telling police her actions had a sexual motive and were done intentionally.
Mental health concerns were noted by investigators, though it’s unclear whether Proctor has a formal diagnosis. Police booked her into the Marion County Jail, where she remains held without bond. Prosecutors will determine final charges, which at this point include attempted murder (a Level 1 felony) and child molestation (a Level 4 felony).
People in this Indianapolis neighborhood say the incident was shocking and heartbreaking. Neighbors describe the street as usually quiet and are still trying to make sense of what happened that night. This case now moves forward in court as authorities weigh serious charges against Proctor.
