Criminal homicide charges filed against mother of infant found dead in bathtub

WHITE TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Indiana County District Attorney Patrick Dougherty announced that homicide charges will be filed against the mother of a 13-month-old baby who was found dead in a bathtub earlier this month.

Dougherty said charges of criminal homicide, aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of children and recklessly endangering another person were filed against Tonya Thomas, all stemming from the Feb. 2 death in White Township involving her 13-month-old son, Ryden Thomas.

According to Dougherty, Thomas left her 3-year-old child in the bathtub with Ryden while she went downstairs to do laundry.

"We have been informed that not only did the mother leave the bathroom to take text message from her mother, but then went downstairs to do laundry and to prepare a snack while she left the kids unattended," Dougherty said.

Dougherty said when Thomas eventually went back to check on her kids, Ryden was lying face down in the tub.

Ryden’s father, Wesley Thomas, will also be charged with endangering the welfare of children, authorities said.

Prosecutors said Wesley Thomas was in the house at the time of the death, which is why he is also being charged.

Previous Story:  Death of 13-month-old who drowned in bathtub ruled accidental

WPXI