Bronx Teens Accused of Brutally Attacking 11-Year-Old Girl With Epilepsy and Her Puppy, Family Says She Now Suffers PTSD and Seizures

NEW YORK, NY — A shocking and disturbing assault in the Allerton neighborhood of the Bronx has left an 11-year-old girl with epilepsy suffering from post-traumatic stress and recurring seizures, after a group of teens was caught on video attacking her and even kicking her puppy during the incident.

According to family members, the violent attack not only caused visible injuries but also triggered a medical crisis for the young victim, whose neurological condition makes her particularly vulnerable to stress and trauma.

Disturbing Video Shows Violent Assault

The brutal encounter was captured in a video that circulated on social media, prompting outrage and swift police action. The footage reportedly shows a group of teenagers surrounding the girl, punching her repeatedly in the head, and at one point, kicking her small puppy as it tried to protect her.

The attack took place near the family’s home in Allerton. Bystanders can be heard shouting during the video, but few intervened before the attackers fled.

“They hit her in the head over and over,” a family member told local news. “She tried to cover her dog, but they kicked it too.”

The girl, who suffers from epilepsy, reportedly experienced seizures shortly after the assault — a reaction her family and doctors believe was triggered by both physical trauma and emotional shock.

Family Says Victim Now Suffers PTSD and Medical Episodes

In interviews with local reporters, the victim’s mother described the days following the attack as a nightmare. Her daughter has reportedly become afraid to go outside and startles easily at sudden noises.

“She’s been having nightmares and panic attacks,” her mother said. “She cries when she remembers what happened. It’s not just bruises — it’s emotional damage that’s going to take time to heal.”

Doctors have confirmed that the girl’s seizures increased in frequency following the assault. Her family says they’re now working closely with mental health specialists to help her manage PTSD symptoms and epileptic episodes brought on by the trauma.

Police Identify and Arrest Teenage Suspect

The New York Police Department confirmed that investigators arrested a 15-year-old male suspect several days after the attack. He has been charged with assault in connection to the case.

Authorities are still reviewing video evidence to determine whether additional suspects were involved. Police say the investigation remains ongoing, and more arrests could follow.

The NYPD’s Youth Division and Bronx Child Advocacy Center are working together to provide victim services and gather community tips about the assault.

“This kind of violence against a child is absolutely unacceptable,” one NYPD spokesperson said. “We will ensure that every individual responsible faces consequences.”

Community Outrage and Support for the Victim

The attack has sparked widespread outrage across New York City, with neighbors and advocacy groups calling for stronger protections for children and harsher penalties for juvenile offenders involved in violent crimes.

Local residents in Allerton have since organized community walks to show solidarity with the victim and her family, while others have launched fundraisers to help cover her ongoing medical and therapy costs.

“This poor child and her puppy didn’t deserve this,” one local resident commented on social media. “We need to do better at keeping our streets safe for kids.”

Experts Warn of Long-Term Emotional Impact

Mental health experts say that violent experiences like this can leave lasting psychological scars — especially on children who already manage chronic health conditions such as epilepsy.

“When a child with a neurological disorder experiences trauma, it can exacerbate symptoms,” explained Dr. Liana Rodriguez, a child psychologist based in New York. “PTSD and seizure disorders can become intertwined, requiring both psychological and medical intervention.”

Advocates are urging city leaders to expand resources for child victims of violence, including trauma-informed therapy programs and school-based counseling for children recovering from assault.

Investigation Continues

Police say the 15-year-old suspect is currently facing juvenile proceedings. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and social media posts to identify others who may have participated or recorded the attack.

Meanwhile, the young girl’s family says they are focused on helping her heal. They continue to call for justice, saying no child should experience the kind of fear and pain she endured.

“All we want is for her to feel safe again,” her mother said. “No parent should have to watch their child go through something like this.”

What do you think — should juvenile assault suspects face tougher penalties in cases involving children or vulnerable victims? Share your thoughts at NapervilleLocal.com.