ATLANTA, Ga. — A heartbreaking case in Atlanta has led to serious criminal charges against a father following the death of his 4-month-old daughter, who authorities say suffered fatal injuries consistent with abusive head trauma. The tragic loss of the infant has sent shockwaves through the community and raised renewed concerns about child safety.
According to investigators, 29-year-old Marcus Woolery has been charged with felony murder and first-degree cruelty to children in connection with the death of his daughter, Ma’liyeh Woolery. Authorities say the infant, who was born on December 8, was found unresponsive on April 11 at a residence on 3rd Avenue Southwest.
Emergency responders were called to the home after a 911 call was placed reporting the situation. Grady EMS personnel arrived and transported the infant to Hughes Spalding Hospital for urgent medical care. Due to the severity of her condition, she was later airlifted to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite for advanced treatment.
Despite the efforts of medical professionals, the child later succumbed to her injuries. An autopsy conducted by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office on April 15 determined the cause of death to be abusive head trauma. Officials reported severe internal injuries, including bleeding in the brain, eyes, and spinal area—findings commonly associated with what is often referred to as shaken baby syndrome.
Investigators noted that such injuries typically produce immediate and serious symptoms. During the course of the investigation, authorities learned that the child’s mother had been hospitalized days earlier for an unrelated medical issue and was not present at the time the injuries occurred. Detectives determined that Woolery was the only caregiver responsible for the infant during that critical period.
Based on these findings, law enforcement officials moved forward with charges against Woolery. The case remains under active investigation as authorities continue to gather evidence and prepare for legal proceedings. The tragic death of Ma’liyeh Woolery has left a deep sense of sorrow, as the community reflects on the loss of a life so young and innocent.