ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO – A Wyoming mother accused of killing her infant son in New Mexico has pleaded not guilty as her case moves forward in state and potentially federal court.
Madeline Daly, 35, entered the plea Monday during a brief appearance before a Grant County district judge. She is charged with first‑degree murder and child abandonment resulting in death after investigators say she shot her 11‑month‑old son, Basil.
Daly has been held without bond at the Grant County Detention Center. A judge last week ruled she should remain in custody, citing concerns about community safety and the circumstances surrounding the child’s death. Prosecutors argued the situation raised credible safety concerns for the boy’s father, Jake Stoner, who had been granted emergency custody before the shooting.
The case began in Wyoming when Daly failed to appear for a custody hearing. Stoner reported the child missing, and a federal warrant was issued. Investigators say Daly fled the state and was on the run for about five weeks before a tip led officers to an RV park near Silver City, New Mexico.
According to court documents, Daly hid inside a neighboring RV that did not belong to her as officers attempted negotiations. During that interaction, investigators say she shot and killed Basil. Daly reportedly told detectives she was unsure why she fired the gun, and later said she did not want her son placed in Stoner’s custody.
She may also face federal charges related to crossing state lines during the alleged abduction. In Wyoming, Daly is still charged with felony custody interference.
Basil’s body has been returned to Nebraska, where Stoner is planning a funeral for Feb. 7.
