Shocking Discovery in Clearwater (33759) : Infant’s Fractured Ribs, Bleeding Eyes Blamed on Car Seat – INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY

Clearwater (33759) – A disturbing case out of Clearwater, Florida has sparked public outrage after local police say two parents attempted to explain their infant’s severe injuries — including fractured ribs and retinal bleeding — by blaming a tight car seat and excessive gas. According to Clearwater Police Department, the 3-month-old boy was brought to Mease Countryside Hospital late Monday night after his mother noticed he was “fussy and not eating.” Medical staff quickly escalated the case after discovering signs of potential abuse, including multiple healing fractures and hemorrhaging in the eyes.

Detectives say the parents, identified as 24-year-old Sarah L. Mayfield and 27-year-old Kyle J. Renner, provided inconsistent explanations. Initially, they claimed the injuries were caused by a “bad car seat fit” and “gas pains,” according to arrest affidavits. Doctors, however, told investigators that the injuries were consistent with “violent shaking and compressive force,” not accidental trauma.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: Infant hospitalized with fractured ribs and retinal bleeding in Clearwater

• IMPACT: 3-month-old boy in protective custody; both parents arrested

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “Gas and a tight car seat do not explain these injuries,” — Chief Eric Gandy

• ACTION: Report signs of abuse to 1-800-96-ABUSE or local law enforcement immediately

Both parents were arrested Tuesday morning and are being held without bond at the Pinellas County Jail. The baby is currently in protective custody and receiving ongoing care. The case has reignited conversations about mandatory reporting, gaps in early intervention services, and public awareness of infant abuse.

“This is one of the most heartbreaking cases we’ve handled this year,” said Clearwater Police Chief Eric Gandy. “The explanations given simply defy medical logic and common sense. This child endured significant trauma.”

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   Clearwater (33759) – Hospitalization reported from Mease Countryside Hospital near McMullen Booth Rd

2. Community Connection:
   “This isn’t something you expect in our neighborhood. It’s shaken all of us.”
   (Attribution: – Carla Thompson, Publix employee and mother of two in Valencia Park)

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  Florida has seen a sharp rise in child welfare investigations in 2025, particularly among infants under six months. Advocates cite gaps in postpartum mental health services, underfunded DCF caseworkers, and a declining number of home wellness visits. This case underscores systemic failures in early detection — the baby had reportedly seen a pediatrician twice in the last month without any signs being reported.

Crisis Response

• IMMEDIATE RESOURCES:
  » Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-96-ABUSE | reportabuse.dcf.state.fl.us
  » Suncoast Center Child Trauma Services: 727-388-1220

• OFFICIAL GUIDANCE:
  “If you suspect even the smallest sign of abuse, speak up. It could save a life.”
  (Attribution: – Lisa Wheeler, Director, Pinellas County Child Protection Team)

Update Log

• 7:45 PM: Infant admitted to Mease Countryside Hospital with suspicious injuries

• 9:30 PM: Doctors alert DCF and Clearwater PD after X-rays show fractures

• 10:15 AM: Parents arrested and booked into Pinellas County Jail

• 12:00 PM: Baby transferred to undisclosed foster placement for continued care