Man Accused of Dropping Niece Down Trash Chute in Staten Island

A 39-year-old man has been charged after allegedly dropping his 1-year-old niece from the third floor of his apartment building onto a trash chute. The incident occurred around 3:15 p.m. on Monday on Steuben Street in Park Hill.

According to police, Aaron Henderson, described family members as having an autism diagnosis, was alone in a bathroom when he asked where his daughter was. His brother replied that Henderson had dropped her down the trash chute. His brother and the child’s parents then hurried to the first floor after hearing the baby crying inside the chute.

The parents managed to open the chute’s door and rescue their daughter, who was unharmed but had scratches on her head, face, and body. She was taken to Richmond University Medical Center for treatment.

While Henderson was hospitalized for a psychological evaluation following the incident, authorities noted he had no prior record or previous encounters with police related to mental health or disturbing incidents. The child’s father said Henderson’s behavior was out of character.