A mother, accused of neglecting her toddler who was found deceased in a squalid crib, reportedly expressed no remorse to authorities. In Utah, a couple is facing murder charges in connection with the death of their 18-month-old daughter, who was allegedly left unattended for extended periods, fed inadequately, and forced to sleep in an unsanitary crib filled with trash and food remnants.
Carrie Marie Murray and Mitchell Chesnut Murray, both aged 31, were taken into custody and are currently in custody without bail. They are charged with aggravated murder and aggravated child abuse in relation to the passing of their daughter, Ruby Marie Murray, who was discovered unresponsive on March 19.
Carrie Murray, a trained nurse, informed investigators that she found her daughter deceased in her crib around 10:30 am and called emergency services but did not attempt life-saving measures, believing the child was beyond help. Despite admitting that Ruby was older than the typical age for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), she speculated that it was the cause of death, stating, “It was her time, I guess,” and denying any responsibility or feelings of guilt.
Upon reviewing baby monitor footage, authorities described the dire conditions of Ruby’s crib, which contained multiple sippy cups, remnants of Eggo-style waffles, and food debris. The room was excessively warm at 77 degrees Fahrenheit, contrasting with the child’s low body temperature of 83 degrees, posing a risk of hypothermia.
Investigators noted that loud music was continuously played in Ruby’s room, possibly affecting her sleep patterns. The couple acknowledged that Ruby’s diet primarily consisted of toasted waffles left in her crib, with minimal proper food intake. The footage revealed Ruby spending the day before her passing confined to her crib, with limited interaction from the parents or their four-year-old child.
Mitchell Murray disclosed that it was common for Ruby to have “crib days,” spending entire days in the cot while he was working, occurring once or twice a week. Ruby’s limited time outside the crib, lack of diaper changes, and inadequate nutrition led to her demise due to dehydration and malnutrition. The parents are accused of subjecting Ruby to severe conditions that ultimately resulted in her tragic death.
Carrie and Mitchell Murray are currently detained without bail as the investigation progresses.