DCS clarification on prior involvement regarding critical injury of a four-year-old girl

January, 12, 2018- 

The Department of Child Safety is clarifying information on a case involving critical injury of a four-year-old girl.
 
The Department received a critical injury report regarding a four-year-old girl on January 11, 2018.
 
The girl was found unresponsive at a Gilbert, AZ home and was taken to the hospital. Hospital staff determined the girl had suffered a severe head injury, brain swelling and other internal and external injuries.
 
Major Murry, who is identified as a friend of the girl’s mother, was caring for the girl at the time of her injuries.
 
Mr. Murry said he merely spanked the girl and she fell on her side.
 
Mr. Murry’s claims did not correspond with the extent of the girl’s injuries. Gilbert Police arrested Mr. Murry and charged him with felony 2 child abuse.
 
DCS does have one prior report involving Mr. Murry and the child.
 
On August 23, 2017, the Department received a physical abuse report alleging Mr. Murry had pushed and slapped the girl causing injuries to her face and forehead. 
 
During the joint investigation with Tempe Police Department, the child, the child’s mother and Mr. Murry denied the allegations. 
 
In separate interviews, all three told investigators the injuries occurred when the girl fell and sustained injuries.
 
Tempe Police closed its case without charges because there was not enough evidence that a crime had been committed.
 
The Department offered the girl’s mother services, but she declined. The Department did not have sufficient evidence to remove the child or compel the family through juvenile court to participate in services. The allegations were unsubstantiated and DCS closed its case on October 30, 2017.
 
The Department will continue to assist the Gilbert Police Department to seek justice for the child.