Clovis, NM – A New Mexico mother and father are behind bars after their 1-year-old son allegedly died from severe abuse, authorities say. Onesimus Skywater, 33, and Donna Phillips, 22, were arrested and charged with child abuse resulting in death, according to Curry County jail records.
Police say the charges stem from injuries inflicted on Calian Skywater, who was taken to Plains Regional Medical Center in Clovis in November 2024 and pronounced dead shortly afterward. Investigators noted extensive bruising on the child’s face, head, and arms during the initial examination.
Alleged Cause of Injuries: ‘Rough Play’
Phillips reportedly told police that her son’s injuries were the result of “rough play with a sibling” and a fall from a high chair. During a December 2023 interview, she claimed Calian had fallen three days earlier and had been seen by his pediatrician for the injuries.
However, authorities said the severity and distribution of Calian’s injuries suggested otherwise.
Autopsy and Medical Findings Reveal Abuse
An initial autopsy performed by the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator indicated that 70%-80% of Calian’s body showed bruising, with additional trauma to his head. Experts concluded that the injuries were likely inflicted within a short time span, contradicting the parents’ account.
A follow-up review in September 2025 by a child abuse pediatric specialist confirmed the abuse. The report stated:
“Totality of the findings present are diagnostic of fatal physical abuse inflicted upon Calian.”
Previous Child Welfare Concerns
Authorities revealed that Calian and his siblings were previously removed from Phillips’ care shortly after birth by the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Division. They were placed in foster care and returned to Phillips in October 2024, just weeks before Calian’s death.
Following the arrest of the parents, the children remain in the custody of a foster family.
Current Status of the Parents
Skywater and Phillips are currently detained in the Curry County Detention Center without bond, jail records indicate. Both face serious charges related to the fatal abuse of their infant son.
Key Takeaways
This case underscores the severity of child abuse and the importance of ongoing monitoring when children are returned to parental care. Authorities continue to urge anyone with concerns about child welfare to report potential abuse immediately.
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