A 13-year-old boy in Alabama reportedly intervened in a violent domestic dispute and knocked out his father to stop him from allegedly strangling the boy’s mother, according to police.
The incident occurred Tuesday in the city of Foley, located in Baldwin County. Authorities say the teenager stepped in after witnessing the assault inside the family home.
Police later arrested the father, identified as Daniel Hernandez Lopez, and charged him with domestic violence.
Domestic violence laws and resources for victims are outlined by the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women.
Teen Confronts Father During Attack
According to police reports cited by local media, Hernandez Lopez was allegedly choking the boy’s mother during a heated argument.
The teenager confronted his father and tried to stop the assault.
Authorities say the situation escalated when the father allegedly attempted to attack the boy.
Investigators said Hernandez Lopez tried to strike the teenager with a bicycle outside the home.
Boy Fights Back to Protect His Mother
Police say the 13-year-old defended himself and his mother by punching his father repeatedly.
The blows left Hernandez Lopez with two black eyes, a swollen lip, and facial injuries.
Authorities believe the teenager’s actions may have knocked his father unconscious.
Officials say the father was highly intoxicated at the time of the incident and may also have been under the influence of narcotics.
Father Arrested and Charged
Following the altercation, law enforcement officers arrested Hernandez Lopez and transported him to the Baldwin County Jail.
Police confirmed he has been charged with domestic violence.
Mugshots released after the arrest showed the suspect with visible facial injuries, including bruises and swelling.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities review the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Domestic Violence Cases Remain a Major Concern
Experts say domestic violence incidents often involve family members stepping in to protect victims.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, millions of Americans experience domestic abuse each year.
Advocates encourage victims or witnesses to report abuse and seek help through law enforcement or support organizations.
In this case, authorities say the teenager’s actions may have prevented the situation from becoming even more dangerous.