ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — An Albuquerque mother was arrested Wednesday and charged in connection with the death of her 18-month-old daughter, who police say died from injuries caused by abuse.
Officers responded Saturday to a home on the 5600 block of Cleghorn Rd. NW after receiving a call about an unresponsive child. First responders were unable to revive the baby, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to investigators, the child had visible bruising on her head, arm, and leg. An autopsy later revealed scattered bruises and a large subdural hemorrhage, consistent with trauma.
Detectives with APD’s Crimes Against Children Unit learned the baby had been exposed to drugs at birth and was placed in state custody. She was recently returned to her birth parents.
The mother, 40-year-old Vanessa Chavez, is charged with child abuse resulting in death. She was booked into the Metro Detention Center.
