Maó baby death: mother faces murder trial on Menorca

A baby’s death in Maó, Menorca, puts her mother on course for a murder trial on Thursday. The girl was born alive on 10 September 2024 and died after her head was submerged in a toilet, according to prosecutors. They are seeking eight years in prison for the mother, who was 22 at the time.

What prosecutors say happened

The woman began having severe abdominal pain at about 05.00 and gave birth roughly five hours later. Prosecutors say the baby died from lack of oxygen after inhaling fresh water while her head was under water in the toilet. Membranes from the birth also covered her mouth and nose. The mother was in shock after giving birth and flushed the toilet.

Neither the woman nor her boyfriend knew she was pregnant. He went to a pharmacy and called emergency services several times, but did not tell them she was giving birth. The baby’s father was a former partner.

Prosecutors say the mother’s relationship to the child is an aggravating factor. They also cite mental impairment as a partial defence and a confession as a mitigating factor.

The trial may not go ahead

Jury selection is due to begin at 09.30 on Thursday at the Balearic Islands Provincial Court. An agreement between the parties could prevent the trial from going ahead.

Otherwise, nine jurors and their alternates will be chosen. Written submissions and expert reports will then be read, followed by witness evidence. The hearing is due to continue the following Tuesday.

Topics: Court cases

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com