Maya Dennis, a 32-year-old mother from Aberdeen, spent New Year’s Eve in custody, charged with first-degree murder following the tragic death of her five-and-a-half-month-old daughter. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office reported that the baby succumbed to serious injuries allegedly inflicted by Dennis, marking a somber start to the year.
“It’s heartbreaking to even talk about, but there was a brain hemorrhage, a fractured skull, a broken leg and other serious internal injuries.” said Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler.. “Here, in the middle of the Christmas season, being involved in the case of the murder of a defenseless child is truly heartbreaking for our people.”
The baby, who had spent much of her short life in the NICU before being discharged just before Christmas, died Tuesday at the Johns Hopkins Pediatric Trauma Center. He is survived by his twin brother, who, along with his three other siblings, is now in the family’s care. Two of Dennis’ children were already living apart from her before the incident, she said. Wbaltv.
Court documents reveal that Dennis called 911 on Saturday night, claiming her daughter was not breathing. First responders took the boy to the hospital, where medical personnel alerted the sheriff’s office the next morning about injuries they described as “very serious, life-threatening and indicative of child abuse.”
“Our investigators responded to the hospital and began the investigation, speaking with family members, including the father, who was incarcerated at the detention center, and unfortunately, our staff at the detention center learned of the death of his son. Simply horrible. It’s just horrible every time,” Sheriff Gahler explained.
Dennis, during questioning, reportedly admitted his role in causing the injuries, according to the sheriff. The mother of six remains held without bond at the Harford County Detention Center, with a bond review scheduled for Thursday.
The tragic case has shocked the community, especially given the helplessness of the young victim. Sheriff Gahler acknowledged the emotional toll the investigation has taken on everyone involved and described the incident as “truly heartbreaking.”
As the investigation continues, authorities emphasize the importance of reporting suspected abuse to protect vulnerable children from harm.