Alabama mother charged with killing sick toddler via feeding tube injection

A mother in Alabama faces charges after authorities claim she killed her sick toddler by injecting a lethal mixture into his feeding tube.

Kaitlynn Dominick, 22, was arrested Tuesday and accused of manslaughter and aggravated child abuse involving a child under six.

The investigation followed the death of her 17-month-old son earlier this month.

On May 4, Dominick brought the infant to USA Health Children's & Women's Hospital for care.

The child suffered from a medical condition requiring a surgically implanted gastric feeding tube for nourishment.

He died the next morning.

Hospital staff grew alarmed by his lab results, prompting a physician to file a mandatory report with the Alabama Department of Human Resources.

Sheriff's detectives immediately launched an inquiry.

Dominick initially gave inconsistent statements regarding her son's condition.

Investigators interviewed medical staff, family members, and others before reportedly uncovering a disturbing admission.

During follow-up, Dominick allegedly admitted to mixing a liquid solution and administering it to her son, which caused his death.

Officials have not disclosed the exact contents of the mixture to the public.

However, a criminal complaint cited by local news outlets alleges the solution contained table salt and another undisclosed liquid.

Captain Justin Correa of the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office told reporters that a concoction was added to the child's preexisting feeding tube.

This introduced a medical emergency that ultimately led to the child's death.

Correa noted the toddler's young age and preexisting medical issues made him particularly vulnerable to the effects of the mixture.

He explained that while a healthy adult might not have reacted the same way, a sick 17-month-old could suffer a much greater medical emergency.

Prosecutors allege the act was intentional.

Chief Assistant District Attorney Teresa Heinz stated she believes Dominick knew the mixture would harm her child.

Reports suggest prosecutors further allege Dominick sought relief from the burden of caring for the ill toddler.

Authorities have not identified the child or disclosed the nature of his underlying medical condition.

The Baldwin County Sheriff's Office says the investigation remains ongoing and no further details will be released now.

Jail records show Dominick was booked into the Baldwin County Jail on May 26 and later released on bond.