Police were called to a home just after 10 am on January 23 after receiving a report that an infant was possibly deceased, according to Atwater Police Chief Richard McEachin.
"Just after 10 am, we got a call that there was an infant that was possibly deceased at the house," McEachin said.
Officers attempted lifesaving measures, performing CPR on the infant until first responders arrived. Paramedics later pronounced the baby dead at the scene.
Neighbors said they noticed a heavy police presence that morning.
Some residents, who asked not to be identified on camera, described the situation as heartbreaking.
"It's devastating. Nobody wants to lose a child," said neighbor April.
Everyone inside the home at the time, including the baby's grandparents, was questioned by police. On Wednesday, both parents were brought in for a second round of questioning.
"After the interviews, the detectives determined there was enough evidence to arrest the father in the death of the child," McEachin said.
Police arrested 20-year-old Maleek McIntrye, who is accused of killing his infant son, DaVonte. He was booked into the Merced County Jail.
McEachin said cases involving young parents can be especially difficult.
"A lot of times, young parents are doing the best they can but they don't really understand the gravity of what's going on," he said.
The arrest sent another wave of shock through the neighborhood.
"I was in shock. I'm still in shock. I still can't wrap my head around it," said neighbor Jimmy.
The infant's death has affected the entire community, including law enforcement.
"Infants are so innocent, and it's really hard to know that they died at the hands of an adult," McEachin said.
A final autopsy will determine DaVonte's exact cause of death. Police said the infant suffered trauma to his body.
McIntrye faces a charge of child endangerment with the possibility of great bodily injury or death.
"Adults are supposed to protect the infants, make sure that they are provided everything they need and are able to grow up and be happy little children, so it's really devastating to know when something like this happens," McEachin said.
The investigation remains ongoing.
For news updates, follow Christina Lopez on Facebook, X and Instagram.