Children, Mother Critically Injured In Bridgeport Assault: UPDATE

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Two children, ages 6 and 4, and their 33-year-old mother were hospitalized in critical condition Wednesday morning following a domestic violence incident on Main Street in Bridgeport, according to authorities.

"Upon arrival, officers were directed by concerned citizen(s) towards a male suspect walking away from the vicinity of the assault," wrote Bridgeport Police Capt. Kevin Gilleran in a statement. "That person was quickly detained by police as additional officers entered the apartment building and located 3 victims, each suffering from life-threatening injuries (blunt force trauma).

"Responding officers began life-saving procedures and made the scene safe for responding medical personnel. All three victims were quickly transported to area hospitals and admitted. Both children, ages 6 and 4, are in critical condition. The third victim has been identified as the children's mother; a 33-year-old Bridgeport woman. She is also listed in critical condition."

Bridgeport resident Abdulrahim Sulaiman, 38, who was seen walking away from the scene, was arrested and is in custody. Charges are pending, according to Gilleran.

"The Detective Bureau has responded and taken charge of the investigation," Gilleran said. "Facts and circumstances in this case indicate all three victims were brutally assaulted by the suspect detained by police outside the apartment."

Gilleran added, "The Bridgeport Police Department’s thoughts and prayers are with this young family."

Anyone with any information related to the case is urged to contact the case officer, Bridgeport Police Det. Jeff Holtz, at 203-581-5243.

Additionally, citizens can also leave tips via the Bridgeport Police Tips Line at 203-576-TIPS.

Tiadora Josef, Bridgeport's Director of Public Information, added the following:

We encourage victims of domestic violence (DV) to seek assistance by contacting supporting agencies such as the Center for Family Justice (CFJ). This non-profit agency provides guidance, assistance, and support to help victims of Domestic Violence become survivors. Victims of domestic violence can contact the Center for Family Justice hotline at 203 384-9559. Another service is the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The collation staff is a 24-hour toll-free hotline and can be reached at 1-888-774-2900 (English) or 1-888-831-9200 (Spanish). Both services are free and confidential.