A Marion, Indiana, infant died on May 9, 2026, six days after being found unresponsive at a residence on North Adams Street. Her 19-year-old mother, Shiann Bodkins, has since been charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in death.
The incident was reported to Marion police on May 3, when officers were called to the home over concerns that the child was in life-threatening condition. Emergency medical personnel arrived first and began providing treatment before police officers reached the residence.
The infant was taken to a hospital but died several days later. According to court documents cited in local media reports, an autopsy attributed her death to anoxic encephalopathy, a brain injury caused by a severe lack of oxygen. The unsafe sleep environment was also identified in the reported findings.
What Investigators Learned About the Sleeping Arrangement
Statements attributed to Bodkins in court documents indicate that she regularly shared a bed with her daughter.
She reportedly explained that the child did not seem comfortable sleeping in her bassinet and appeared to rest better when placed in her mother’s bed. She also acknowledged knowing that bed-sharing was not recommended.
The documents describe events on the morning of May 3. Bodkins reportedly said her mother woke her at around 10 a.m. and told her the baby was awake and moving.
Approximately 30 minutes later, her mother alerted her that the infant was no longer moving or breathing. Emergency assistance was subsequently requested.
These details form part of the account presented in court documents. The criminal case will determine the legal responsibility, if any, arising from the incident.
Neglect Charge Filed Against Shiann Bodkins
Bodkins is facing a charge of neglect of a dependent resulting in death. A Grant County booking record reportedly classifies the charge as a Level 1 felony.
The case had a court appearance scheduled for November 6, 2026, according to the available reporting. However, the outcome of that hearing was not provided.
A criminal charge is an allegation, not proof of guilt. Bodkins remains presumed innocent unless the prosecution establishes the allegations in court.
What Is Known About the Infant’s Death
The child was taken to hospital after being discovered unresponsive at the family residence. Despite medical treatment, she died on May 9.
The reported autopsy findings identified anoxic encephalopathy, which occurs when the brain is deprived of sufficient oxygen. The unsafe sleep environment was also noted in connection with the death.
The available account does not provide the infant’s name, age, funeral arrangements or further information about the family’s circumstances.
Shiann Bodkins Obituary and Cause of Death
Obituary: An infant girl from Marion, Indiana, died on May 9, 2026, following a medical emergency at a residence on North Adams Street six days earlier. Her mother, Shiann Bodkins, 19, has been charged in connection with the child’s death.
Cause of Death: The reported autopsy findings identified anoxic encephalopathy and an unsafe sleep environment.
Funeral Arrangements: No public information about funeral or memorial arrangements was included in the available reports.
Disclaimer: The criminal charge against Shiann Bodkins remains an allegation. She is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.