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A Missouri mother has been indicted by a grand jury after allegedly causing the death of her infant daughter in a horrific accident. Mariah Thomas, 26, of Kansas City, faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and endangering the welfare of a child.
Thomas, who has been in custody at the Jackson County Jail since February, allegedly “accidentally” placed her baby in an oven instead of her crib, resulting in fatal burn injuries. If convicted, she could face 10 to 30 years in prison for child endangerment and an additional three to 10 years for the manslaughter charge.
The Incident
According to a probable cause affidavit, police responded to a home in Kansas City at 1:30 p.m. on February 9 after receiving a report of a non-breathing infant. Officers arrived to find a family member holding the deceased baby girl, who suffered severe burn injuries.
A male relative stated the family had left the home earlier that day, leaving Thomas alone with the infant. He described them as being in "good spirits" before leaving.
Around 1 p.m., Thomas reportedly called the relative, saying, “Something’s wrong with the baby” and urging him to return home immediately. When he arrived, he smelled smoke and found the baby deceased in her crib.
When questioned, Thomas allegedly admitted, “I thought I put her in her crib, but I accidentally put her in the oven.”
Investigation Findings
Authorities discovered the baby’s body in a car seat in the living room, with thermal injuries across her body. Her onesie had melted onto her diaper, and a burned baby blanket was also recovered.
Thomas declined to speak with investigators and remains in custody on a $100,000 bond.
Community Reactions
Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker acknowledged the heartbreaking nature of the case, stating:
“We acknowledge the gruesome nature of this tragedy and our hearts are weighted by the loss of this precious life. We trust the criminal justice system to respond appropriately to these awful circumstances.”
Neighbors expressed shock and sadness. Corrine Foreman, who lives nearby, recalled hearing sirens and seeing a baby carrier being transported between the house and an ambulance
“I’m pretty shocked and appalled,” said Amber Morgan, another neighbor. “It’s sad, especially when it’s a child. No child should leave this world like this.”
Legal Proceedings
Thomas’ trial is scheduled for January 13. The case has drawn attention for its tragic and disturbing details.
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