BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — A Reno couple accused in the death of a 2-year-old girl in October 2024 are now scheduled to go to trial later this month, according to Kern County court records.
PREVIOUS REPORTING: Reno couple arrested after two-year-old dies from suspected abuse in Bakersfield
Gregory Joseph MacDonald and Chandy Ann McCarthy, both of Reno, Nevada, are set to be tried on August 31, 2026.
The case dates back to Oct. 10, 2024, when officers were called to a home in the 300 block of Vernal Place for a report of a 2-year-old girl in medical distress. When officers arrived, they helped emergency medical personnel with life-saving efforts.
Police said the child was taken to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The investigation found the child suffered traumatic injuries consistent with abuse, according to police. Detectives responded to the scene.
MacDonald was arrested on charges of aggravated child abuse causing death, and McCarthy was initially arrested for felony child endangerment. A second child in the home was taken into protective custody.
MacDonald now faces charges of murder, assault of a child under 8 years old resulting in great bodily injury or death, and child cruelty likely to produce great bodily injury or death, records show.
McCarthy faces charges of assault of a child under 8 years old resulting in great bodily injury or death, and child cruelty likely to produce great bodily injury or death.
Anyone who knows of an endangered or abused child, or suspects a child is in danger, is urged to contact their local law enforcement agency or Kern County Child Protective Services at (661) 631-6011.