ROBBINSVILLE, NC – A 25-year-old man has been sentenced to up to 38 years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder and felony child abuse in the death of his infant daughter, authorities announced. The tragic case unfolded in Graham County, North Carolina, and has shocked the local community.
Details of the Incident
The victim, Lively Crue Colindres-Nunez, was not yet 8 months old when the fatal incident occurred on February 11, 2022. On that day, her mother left the family home in Robbinsville to attend classes at Haywood Community College, approximately 70 miles away.
Later that evening, at around 10:15 p.m., Corbin Lee Nunez allegedly called the mother to say that the child had “gone limp,” according to 43rd Prosecutorial District Attorney Ashley Hornsby Welch. The mother instructed him to call 911, and emergency responders transported the baby to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Cause of Death and Autopsy Findings
Despite medical attention, Lively died on February 12, 2022. An autopsy revealed that the infant suffered blunt force injuries, which authorities confirmed caused her death. Court documents indicate that Corbin Lee Nunez was arrested on February 21, 2022, and a judge ordered him held without bond.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
The case lingered for more than three years as investigations and court proceedings took place. On September 18, 2025, Nunez pleaded guilty to both second-degree murder and felony child abuse. Following his plea, he was sentenced to up to 38 years in prison, reflecting the severity of his actions and the tragic loss of a young life.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Safety Concerns
The horrific nature of this crime has left the Robbinsville community and surrounding areas in mourning. Authorities have emphasized the importance of vigilance in protecting children and ensuring that incidents of child abuse are promptly reported and investigated.
District Attorney Welch highlighted the case as an example of the justice system holding perpetrators accountable, while also raising awareness about the vulnerability of infants and young children in domestic environments.
Call to Action
Cases like this raise urgent questions about child safety and community vigilance. What steps can families and communities take to prevent such tragedies? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation on protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
