Woman arrested in Hillsborough County in connection to infant’s death

A Hillsborough County woman faces charges of first-degree murder after autopsy results showed a two-month-old child left in her care died of injuries consistent with Shaken Baby Syndrome, deputies said.

The criminal investigation began in April 2019, when physicians from St. Joesph’s Hospital notified deputies of the baby’s injuries, which left the child paralyzed, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. The child remained hospitalized until dying on March 20.

A child abuse investigation was launched into Brienna Craig, which wrapped up Wednesday and led to her arrest. The Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the child’s cause of death as a homicide.

It’s unclear if Craig is the mother of the child.

“This is absolutely tragic and our anger toward Craig is immeasurable,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister in a statement. “The thought of an innocent child suffering at the hands of a grown adult is horrifying and unthinkable. Although nothing will bring this child back, we will ensure Brienna Craig is punished for her evil actions.”

This is a developing story. Stay with tampabay.com for updates.