Alabama mother accused of fatally beating her baby

ATHENS, Ala. (TCN) — Authorities recently arrested a mother on suspicion of causing fatal injuries to her infant.

On Aug. 1, the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office responded to a home on Estate Drive, where they found an unresponsive baby “who had been severely beaten and showed no signs of life.” Deputies attempted to revive the infant, and the child was transported to a hospital.

According to the sheriff’s office, investigators determined the baby’s mother, Morgan Thornton, allegedly caused her child’s injuries. Authorities reportedly searched the home and obtained a blood sample from the mom, who
“appeared to be intoxicated at the time.” Officials originally charged Thornton with aggravated child abuse.

The victim later died from the injuries, and Thornton’s charge was upgraded to capital murder. She remains held in the Limestone County Jail.

In a statement, Sheriff Joshua McLaughlin said, “Please keep this family and everyone who responded to this heartbreaking scene in your prayers. While the outcome is devastating, I’m incredibly proud of our deputies, firefighters, EMTs, hospital staff, and DHR workers who did absolutely everything in their power to save this innocent child. Their dedication and compassion in the face of such horror reflect the very best of public service.”

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