ICYMI: Heartbreaking! Minnesota Mother Sentenced in Death of 13-Year-Old Disabled Daughter
A Minnesota mother has been sentenced after her deadly decision to ignore her disabled daughter’s oxygen alarm, resulting in a tragic loss. 🌐 #News #StearnsCountyMN #Minnesota #Crime
STEARNS COUNTY, MN – A Minnesota woman has been sentenced to nearly 22 years in prison for the death of her disabled daughter, after admitting to silencing the alarms on her oxygen-monitoring device in 2020. The incident, which led to the tragic death of 13-year-old Kylie Larson, underscores the responsibility parents have when caring for vulnerable children.
The Background of Kylie Larson’s Condition
Kylie Larson faced significant health challenges due to chronic respiratory failure and developmental delays, conditions stemming from a loss of oxygen at birth. As a result, she required constant care. This included having her tracheostomy suctioned, along with regular medication and monitoring of her oxygen levels. Her mother, Elise C. Nelson, shared custody of Kylie with her ex-husband and was responsible for her care during the time of the incident.
The Day of the Tragedy
In June 2020, Nelson was alone with Kylie while her current husband was on a fishing trip. During this time, Nelson admitted to struggling with a severe alcohol addiction. According to court documents, she bought a bottle of vodka and drank to the point of blacking out.
On June 20, 2020, Kylie’s pulse oximeter alarm began sounding, indicating a problem with her oxygen levels. Nelson repeatedly silenced the alarm, and the following day, she removed the device altogether. Authorities later revealed that Kylie’s pulse oximeter had not recorded a pulse for approximately seven hours before Nelson called 911. By the time emergency responders arrived, Kylie was found cold to the touch and was pronounced dead shortly after at the hospital.
Legal Process and Sentence
Nelson, 39, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in October 2023, with a manslaughter charge dropped as part of a plea deal. The plea came after Nelson had initially entered a Norgaard plea, claiming she did not remember the events surrounding her daughter’s death due to alcohol intoxication.
She later attempted to withdraw the plea, stating that her attorney had coerced her and that she had not fully understood the agreement. The judge denied this motion, asserting that Nelson had sufficient time to understand the plea.
Nelson was sentenced to 261 months (about 22 years) in prison for her role in Kylie’s death. Before the sentencing, 18 victim impact statements were submitted to the court, though they were not made available to the public.
A Tragic Loss and Moving Forward
This case serves as a stark reminder of the profound consequences when the most vulnerable are not properly cared for. While the legal proceedings have concluded, the emotional toll of Kylie’s death will be felt for years to come by those who loved her. The void left by this loss is immeasurable, and it highlights the importance of responsible caregiving, especially for children with complex medical needs.
As we reflect on this tragedy, we remember the words of Matthew 5:4: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” May the memory of Kylie Larson remain in the hearts of those who knew her, and may her life remind us of the preciousness of every child and the duty of care we owe to those who are vulnerable.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Minnesota
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