Washington State – A 27-year-old mother in Washington has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and assault after her 8-week-old baby was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries, including a brain bleed and multiple fractures. Disturbing messages she sent on Facebook revealed her violent thoughts toward her infant daughter, prompting a swift police investigation.
The infant was brought to the hospital by her father with suspicious injuries on August 7, leading doctors to uncover extensive trauma likely caused by non-accidental means. Authorities detained Shannon McNease in Mason County and she currently faces a $1 million bond as the investigation continues.
Disturbing Facebook Messages Reveal Homicidal Intent
According to court documents, McNease wrote alarming Facebook messages to both the baby’s father and a friend, expressing violent impulses toward her daughter. In one message to the father, she said, “I can’t stand her dude” and referred to the baby being “back on her BS again.”
More explicitly, McNease messaged a friend with statements such as, “Like I legit want to shake her to death or throw her on top of the floor so hard she dies… Her cries make me feel like I’m gonna snap and murder.”
During the police interview, McNease admitted writing these messages but cited postpartum depression and emotional distress, claiming she did not truly mean her words. She wrote in other messages, “It’s not like I hate her. I’d die for her dude. But the stress is eating my f—ing sanity to bits.”
Severe Injuries Point to Non-Accidental Trauma
Medical examination indicated the infant suffered a brain bleed along with 20 rib fractures and six metaphyseal fractures, injuries often linked with abusive trauma rather than accidental causes. Experts explained these types of fractures occur when limbs are forcibly pulled, twisted, or the child is violently shaken.
- Metaphyseal fractures do not occur from routine infant care, kicking, or accidental impacts.
- Medical staff emphasized these injuries are highly associated with child abuse.
While both parents denied abuse and attributed the injuries to accidents, including the baby being dropped or a cat jumping on her, medical experts and investigators found these explanations inconsistent with the severity and type of injuries.
Baby Survives and Is Now Safe in Relatives’ Care
The infant survived her injuries and is currently under the care of her grandparents. Authorities have confirmed that the baby’s father has not been charged with any crimes related to this case.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Shannon McNease remains in custody in Kitsap County on a $1 million bond. She is scheduled to appear in court on September 26. The charges include attempted first-degree murder and assault on a child, reflecting the gravity of the injuries and her expressed intentions.
“Metaphyseal fractures do not occur with routine care and handling of an infant. They do not occur from kicking or impacting a hard surface. Metaphyseal fractures are highly associated with child abuse,” police said.
Understanding the Impact of Postpartum Mental Health and Child Safety
This case underscores the severe consequences that untreated postpartum depression and emotional distress can have. While McNease claimed mental anguish, the safety and well-being of vulnerable infants remain paramount.
- Postpartum depression affects many mothers but requires timely support to prevent harm.
- Child abuse and non-accidental trauma often leave distinct, serious injuries demanding medical and legal intervention.
- Awareness and early detection can help protect infants from similar tragedies.
If you or someone you know is struggling with postpartum depression or experiencing distressing thoughts, it’s vital to seek professional help immediately to ensure safety for both parent and child.
What Do You Think?
What is your response to the alarming revelations in this case? How can communities better support parents facing postpartum challenges to prevent child abuse? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
