In Tucson, a family’s tragedy unfolds amid a serious accusation
A young girl, nine years old, died after complications from severe anemia and a lack of adequate nutrition. The incident occurred in March, and her mother, Sandra Krajkovic, who is 38, along with the grandmother, Elizabeth Krajkovic, 64, faces serious charges related to child abuse. An autopsy revealed that the child also suffered from hepatic necrosis and iron deficiency, with fluid in the lungs. As a result, both women are now charged with first-degree murder.
The victim, named Kelcyea, passed away on March 22 at her home in Tucson, Arizona. The mother told authorities that her daughter battled anemia and that the girl had been sleeping at the time of the events. She attempted to call 911, but emergency responders were unable to save the child, according to reports from The New York Post and the Arizona Daily Star.
Visible abuse and a deteriorating situation
Police arrived at the residence on East Gold Links Street and found the victim’s face densely covered by lice. One officer described a large amount of vermin around the head region. An older brother disclosed that the mother had tried to treat the infestation with mouthwash, a detail that drew further concern from investigators.
The mother indicated she planned to take the child to a hospital, but once she returned home she found the girl apparently asleep and did not change her mind. Investigators noted a text message sent by Sandra to her boyfriend the day before the incident, March 21, in which she described the situation and asked whether the grandmother should confirm if the child was dying. The boyfriend advised that the girl should be transferred to a medical facility, but Sandra did not proceed with medical care when the time came; this sequence of events is a focus of the police inquiry.
Photographs and statements corroborate that both the grandmother and the mother faced accountability for Kelcyea’s welfare. Elizabeth, the grandmother, who was responsible for managing the home while the mother worked, reportedly sent messages indicating she could not take full responsibility for Kelcyea and that other siblings should not be blamed for the situation. In one instance, she described the care challenges and suggested that the family’s circumstances made it difficult for Kelcyea to receive proper attention. Authorities note these communications as part of the ongoing investigation.
In addition to the primary victim, the investigation revealed that two of Kelcyea’s siblings, aged 11 and 13, also lived in the home. Both older children were found to be suffering from a heavy lice infestation and are now in the custody of other relatives. The situation has drawn attention to broader concerns about neglect and the handling of medical emergencies within the family unit.
The case highlights how untreated medical conditions, neglect, and delays in seeking appropriate care can escalate into grave outcomes. Local authorities continue to document the sequence of events, including medical findings, communications between family members, and the actions taken leading up to Kelcyea’s passing. The investigation remains active as prosecutors prepare to present their case in court. The community awaits further updates from Tucson law enforcement and court filings.