A heartbreaking child abuse case in Indiana has led to the arrest of a mother and father accused of failing to get emergency medical care for their dying 6-month-old daughter.
Authorities say the infant was seriously injured and in critical condition while the couple allegedly stopped for snacks, cigarettes, and an energy drink instead of driving directly to the hospital.
Investigators later discovered the baby had suffered multiple injuries believed to be caused by ongoing abuse.
Indiana Parents Arrested After Infant’s Death
Police identified the accused as Grant Ethan Stevens and Hannah Marie Evans, both 30 years old.
The couple now faces serious felony charges connected to the death of their infant daughter in October 2025.
According to authorities:
- Stevens faces one count of aggravated battery and two counts of neglect of a dependent.
- Evans faces one count of neglect of a dependent resulting in death.
Investigators believe the baby suffered repeated abuse during her short life.
Child Found Unresponsive Inside Apartment
The investigation began on Oct. 28, 2025, at the couple’s apartment in Valparaiso, Indiana.
According to reports, Stevens told investigators he was caring for the baby while Evans took a break in another room.
He claimed he was feeding the infant when she suddenly started vomiting mucus through her nose and mouth.
Stevens said he panicked and attempted CPR and back blows but did not immediately tell Evans because he believed the child’s breathing had stabilized.
However, police said he noticed the baby was wheezing afterward.
Mother Allegedly Wearing Headphones During Incident
Investigators said Evans told police she was in another room wearing noise-canceling headphones and playing a handheld video game during the incident.
She reportedly heard several loud smacking noises and briefly checked on Stevens and the child.
After Stevens explained the situation, Evans allegedly returned to playing her video game.
Authorities said the couple later went to bed while the baby slept nearby.
Couple Delayed Hospital Visit for Snacks and Cigarettes
According to investigators, the infant’s condition became worse overnight.
Evans reportedly told police she felt something was wrong after the baby missed her regular feeding time during the early morning hours.
When the couple woke up around 6 a.m., Stevens allegedly found the child cold and nearly lifeless.
Instead of calling an ambulance, the couple decided to drive the infant to the hospital themselves.
However, investigators discovered they first made a stop at a Family Express gas station located in the opposite direction of the hospital.
Police said the couple purchased:
- A Red Bull energy drink
- Cigarettes
- A candy bar
The detour reportedly delayed the trip to the hospital by around 30 minutes.
Doctors Found Severe Injuries
When the child arrived at Northwest Health — Porter hospital, doctors reportedly discovered severe internal injuries, including:
- A perforated bowel
- A fractured rib
- Multiple older broken ribs in different stages of healing
The baby was later transferred to the University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital.
Sadly, she died from her injuries on Oct. 31, 2025.
Medical experts reportedly determined the infant was suffering from septic shock caused by infection and likely dying during the delayed drive to the hospital.
Medical Examiner Ruled Death a Homicide
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office officially ruled the infant’s death a homicide caused by multiple injuries.
A child abuse specialist reportedly told investigators there was no medical explanation for the child’s injuries other than physical abuse.
Authorities also said Evans admitted there had been earlier warning signs involving Stevens’ behavior around the child.
According to reports, she recalled a previous incident where the infant suffered bruising while in Stevens’ care.
Investigators also claimed Stevens had previously used insulting language when referring to the baby.
