CORNELIA – The criminal investigation into the homicide of a Cornelia infant is continuing.
“On April 8, a 3-month-old female infant died at Scottish Rite/Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta after receiving injuries from Elba Maureen Santiago, 25, the mother of the infant,” said Cornelia Police Chief Chad Smith.
Santiago was arrested Wednesday, charged with murder, first-degree cruelty to children, and two counts of aggravated battery. She remained in the Habersham County Detention Center Thursday morning.
Emergency personnel were called to AppleTree Inn, 190 S. Main St., Cornelia, on April 2 for an unresponsive infant. Habersham County Emergency Services personnel transported the infant by ambulance to Northeast Georgia, then the child was airlifted to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite “for treatment of trauma consistent with child abuse,” according to Smith.
“This is an active investigation and further details will not be released,” Smith said. “This case has shocked the conscience of everyone involved, so please keep the family and all public safety personnel involved in your prayers.”
