Bronx girl attacked by stepdad with nail, knife, fork, and crochet needle, according to officials.
A violent incident in the Bronx has resulted in serious charges against a 28-year-old man, Joshua Burnside, who is accused of brutally attacking his 12-year-old stepdaughter. Burnside appeared in Bronx Criminal Court via video from Bellevue Hospital, where he was recovering from a suicide attempt that postponed his arraignment. The court, presided over by Judge Harold Bahr, ordered Burnside to be held without bail.
On October 22, 2025, around 11:15 p.m., a heated argument between Burnside and his ex-wife escalated into a horrific assault inside their sixth-floor apartment located on E. 173rd Street, near West Farms Road in Crotona Park East. According to court documents, the altercation began when Burnside’s ex-wife attempted to defend herself with a knife. However, Burnside seized the weapon, stabbing her in the stomach and slashing her face. The woman managed to escape, leaving her daughter vulnerable.
Following the attack on his ex-wife, Burnside allegedly turned his aggression toward the young girl, using multiple sharp objects—including a knife, fork, crochet needle, and even kitchen utensils like a plate and tongs—to inflict injuries. The assault reached a horrifying climax when Burnside reportedly drove a long screw into the girl’s nasal cavity, penetrating her brain. Despite the severity of her injuries, the girl underwent a successful emergency surgery at Cohen Children’s Medical Center to remove the screw and is currently in critical but stable condition.
Law enforcement officials have described the outcome of her surgery as miraculous. The young girl’s mother, who sustained minor injuries during the altercation, was treated at Jacobi Medical Center. Burnside’s two younger children were also evaluated and found unharmed in the aftermath of this violent episode.
In addition to the anticipated court proceedings, Burnside faces multiple charges, including assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child. His next court appearance is scheduled for December 10, 2025. The disturbing nature of this incident has drawn significant public attention, highlighting issues of domestic violence and child safety in the community.
Media News Source continues to monitor the developments surrounding this case as it evolves within the judicial system.
