Crime & Courts

Mother jailed on suspicion of murder, child abuse in toddler’s death: Wichita police

A 27-year-old Wichita woman was jailed Saturday on suspicion of first-degree felony murder and child abuse in connection with her toddler’s death, police said.

Officers who responded to a home in the 800 block of South Mission around 3:05 p.m. Saturday found 1-year-old Myonna Townley in critical condition. Police said in a Sunday news release that the child was not breathing when they arrived at the address, near Lincoln and Woodlawn.

The girl was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, but died from her injuries that included unspecified “trauma on her body,” police said.

After interviews and looking at evidence in the case, the police arrested Myonna’s mother, Neriah Dilley, and booked her into the Sedgwick County Jail.

She is being held in lieu of $250,000 bond, online jail booking records show.

“The investigation is ongoing and the case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office,” the Wichita police said in the news release.

“WPD continues its thoughts and prayers for everyone affected by this tragic incident.”

This story was originally published October 10, 2021 at 1:18 PM.

Amy Renee Leiker
The Wichita Eagle
Amy Renee Leiker has been reporting for The Wichita Eagle since 2010. She covers crime, courts and breaking news and updates the newspaper’s online databases. She’s a mom of three and loves to read in her non-work time. Reach her at 316-268-6644 or at aleiker@wichitaeagle.com.
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