In a shocking and tragic turn of events, a Bronx woman stands accused of brutally bludgeoning her mother to death with a cooking pot, then making a chilling admission during a 911 call. Skydajah Patterson, 26, allegedly carried out the heinous act against her mother, 46-year-old Selma Mclean, inside their apartment in NYCHA’s President Adams Houses in the Bronx.
The harrowing incident unfolded on Monday at 3:40 a.m., shortly after Patterson’s release from a mental health treatment facility. Sources reveal that Patterson dialed emergency services to confess to the crime, stating, “I just killed my mom,” as authorities rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, responders found Mclean unconscious and unresponsive, with severe trauma to her face and head.
Disturbingly, Patterson was reportedly discovered still clutching the blood-covered pot when police entered the apartment. Allegedly admitting to using the kitchenware as a weapon, Patterson revealed that she struck her mother on the back of her head, rendering her unconscious.
Daughter allegedly beats mom to death with pan then makes chilling admission on 911 call: sources https://t.co/AW8ybOTP9H pic.twitter.com/ToEDxWJSAi
— New York Post (@nypost) March 25, 2024
According to Mclean’s goddaughter Danaeyah Reynolds, Patterson’s mental state had been deteriorating since the loss of her baby boy in August. Reynolds disclosed that Patterson had recently been discharged from a psychiatric ward and exhibited signs of distress, including hearing voices and speaking in a man’s voice. Mclean had expressed fear of her daughter, who she believed was influenced by these voices to perceive her as dangerous.
Reynolds further revealed past instances of violence, including a previous attack with knives, allegedly prompted by Patterson’s delusions. Despite efforts to seek help, Patterson’s condition worsened, culminating in the tragic events that unfolded on Monday.
Law enforcement sources disclosed Patterson’s history of mental health struggles, including a previous domestic incident report involving her mother as the victim. Mclean, a mother of three, was described as a kind and gentle soul by neighbors, who expressed shock and sadness over the devastating loss.
As the investigation into this heartbreaking incident unfolds, the community grapples with the profound implications of mental health challenges and the urgent need for accessible resources and support. The tragic fate of Selma Mclean serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of untreated mental illness and the imperative of early intervention and compassionate care.
