Michigan Toddler Found With 'Shattered' Head, Babysitter Charged With Murder

A babysitter in Montcalm County, Michigan, was charged with murder Friday (April 10) in connection with the death of a toddler.

Police responded to the babysitter’s home on West Stanton Road near North Hillman Road on March 2 after receiving a 911 call from the suspect’s boyfriend, saying that the toddler was found unresponsive. The toddler, identified as two-year-old Vayda Vasquez, could not be resuscitated and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following the death, Chris Sanchez, the father of the child said, “I’m sorry this happened to you and I wish I could’ve been there to protect you and I feel like I failed you as a father and a protector. I never wished this on you and I was so close to getting you back and I really wish I would’ve because I know this never would’ve happened.”

An autopsy revealed that the toddler died from massive head injuries and that these injuries were not caused by an accident.

Speaking about the baby’s injuries, Shawnerie Russell, a grandmother to the victim, said, “Her head, neck and back were literally shattered. It’ll be with most of us for the rest of our lives.”

Following an investigation, the babysitter, identified as 36-year-old Kellie Barthel, was taken into custody. On April 10, she was charged with murder, open murder and first-degree child-abuse.

Speaking about the babysitter’s arrest, Russel said, “We are happy, she’s in jail, but we really can’t wait until the verdict comes down that she’s guilty. She should never see daylight again.”