GEORGIA — Authorities in Douglas County are investigating the death of a 1-year-old child after police say six young children were left alone in a home for more than 12 hours without food.
According to the Douglasville Police Department, officers were called to a home on James D. Simpson Avenue shortly after midnight on March 29 in response to a reported cardiac arrest. When officers arrived, they found several children inside the residence, including the 1-year-old, who was later confirmed dead by the Douglas County Coroner’s Office.
Police said five other children, all no older than 10, had also been left in the home.
Investigators described the conditions inside the residence as unsafe and unsanitary. A police report noted a “strong, foul odor” upon entry, with the home in “a state of significant disorder,” and every room in disarray.
According to arrest warrants, Sherry Diane Magby left the children alone without adequate supervision or food. One warrant alleges the lack of food led the 1-year-old to ingest cockroaches and ants.
Magby was taken into custody and is facing six counts of cruelty to children. Authorities said additional charges could be filed as the death investigation continues.
Officials have not clarified the relationship between Magby and the children. She is currently being held in the Douglas County Jail without bond.
The Georgia Division of Family and Children Services has been contacted regarding the case. The investigation remains ongoing.
