Suspect is charged with first degree murder in perpetuating of aggravated child abuse
Published by RawNews1st
On September 11, 2025 before 8 p.m., police were called to an apartment on Forestal Drive in Knoxville, Tennessee for a call about an unresponsive baby. Upon arrival, they saw the baby had injuries around the jaw. Police said they determined the baby was in his father’s care when he was injured.
The father was identified as 18-year-old Adrien Dokes.
Dokes was taken to the public safety complex where he allegedly admitted to squeezing the baby’s neck and chin in frustration, resulting in the baby struggling to breath. He also allegedly admitted to pushing down hard on the baby’s abdomen.
The baby died at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital just after midnight. The victim will undergo an autopsy to determine cause of death and the full extent of his injuries.
The victim was identified as 3-month-old Lonni.
Dokes is charged with first degree murder in perpetuating of aggravated child abuse. He was booked in the Knox County Jail and is being held on $1 million bond. He’s schedule to appear in court for a bond hearing on September 15 at 8:30 a.m.
