Wilmington woman charged after allegedly killing child in sleep

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Wilmington Police Department has charged a woman with involuntary manslaughter after her infant died while sleeping in bed with her.

On October 3rd, 2023, officers responded to a home in the 800 block of Castle Street for an unconscious infant who was not breathing. First responders were not able to revive the child.

Police say 24-year-old Mackenzie Katlyn Reed had been co-sleeping with the infant and suffocated the child during the night. In 2022, Reed had another child who police say died in the same way.

In addition to an involuntary manslaughter charge, Reed is also facing charges of felony child abuse causing serious injury, and child abuse/neglect causing serious physical injury. This follows an extensive investigation by the Wilmington Police Department.

Reed is in the New Hanover County Detention Center under a $500,000 secured bond.