GREENE COUNTY, MO., Two Missouri residents are facing second-degree murder charges in connection with the death of a 2-month-old infant, according to court documents and the Greene County Sheriff’s Office.
Jonathan Gaona, 33, and Stephanie Hernandez, 29, were charged following the death of Hernandez’s daughter, Jaylynn, who died on Feb. 11. An affidavit states that the child’s death was attributed to complications from thermal burns, along with additional contributing medical factors identified by the medical examiner.
Authorities allege that Gaona admitted during interviews to placing the infant in a bathtub with hot water and later failing to seek medical treatment. According to investigators, he told detectives he became overwhelmed while caring for the child. Court documents indicate that he also acknowledged physically handling the infant in a harmful manner.
Investigators further allege that Hernandez did not take the child to the hospital despite visible injuries. A woman who was staying at the residence reportedly told police she attempted to seek medical assistance for the infant but was told not to do so.
According to the affidavit, the child was eventually transported to a local hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Authorities also stated that Hernandez created an online fundraiser after the child’s death seeking financial assistance for funeral expenses. The fundraiser description referenced the loss of her infant daughter.
In addition to second-degree murder charges, Gaona faces counts of child abuse or neglect resulting in serious injury and child endangerment. Hernandez is also charged with child abuse or neglect and child endangerment.
Both defendants were ordered held without bond. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional court proceedings are expected.
Officials have not released further details as the case moves through the judicial process.
