The parents of a 16-month-old toddler who tragically died at a North Carolina daycare are now suing a former employee, alleging her actions caused their child’s death. The wrongful death lawsuit was filed on March 16, 2026, accusing Alexandra Coffey, a daycare worker at the time, of causing the child’s death through smothering and compression asphyxia.
The Incident
The lawsuit alleges that on May 19, 2025, Alexandra Coffey placed Maddy Mitchell face down on a sleeping mat, covering her head with a blanket. Coffey is accused of then laying her body on top of Maddy’s upper torso and neck, causing the infant to struggle and kick for several minutes until her leg stopped moving.
- According to the lawsuit, Coffey continued to lie on the child while scrolling on her phone.
- After a period of time, Coffey allegedly left the toddler under the blanket without checking on her for about three hours.
- By the time Coffey checked on Maddy, the toddler was already dead, and the cause of death was determined to be smothering and compression asphyxia.
- The lawsuit claims that Maddy was found stiff due to rigor mortis when Coffey picked her up.
The Lawsuit and Legal Actions
- The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner classified the child’s manner of death as homicide.
- Coffey was charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection to the incident.
- Coffey’s defense attorney, Lisa Dubs, commented, stating that Coffey “loves children” and maintains her innocence. She also mentioned that Coffey is not currently in custody but had been given a bond.
Reaction from the Family
Maddy’s parents are devastated by the tragic loss of their daughter, especially given that May 19, 2025, was supposed to be Maddy’s first day at daycare.
- Strickland, Maddy’s father, told PEOPLE, “It’s outrageous. It’s tragic. This was the child’s first day at daycare.”
- The family is seeking justice for Maddy and vows to ensure that what happened to their daughter does not happen to any other children.
A Continuing Fight for Justice
Maddy’s family is committed to fighting for answers and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. Blankenship, a relative, added, “We don’t want this to happen to any other children. We’re going to continue to fight for answers.”
