23-year-old Justin Whittington from Bakersfield, California was filmed chasing his young son through a supermarket before landing a punch in the child's face, who had held his hands up in defence against his father's attack.
Following the shocking incident, the father stalked away from his son after pulling him to his feet by his T-shirt.
The child's pregnant mother, Crystal, was then seen escorting the little boy out of the store as he rubbed his injured face.
The shocking footage was handed over to police after it came to the attention of Harry Dindral, the supermarket's owner.
The child's father was subsequently arrested and charged with child endangerment, but was released following a $20,000 bail.
The child at the centre of this frightening attack was examined by medical professionals following the incident who concluded his injuries did not warrant hospitalisation.
Justin Whittington is due to appear in court on April 24th.
