Prosecutors in Opelika murder trial describe toddler's death as torture
OPELIKA, Ala. (WRBL) – Two-year-old Ivy Baker didn't die quickly, prosecutors told jurors Tuesday. She suffered—her small body battered by what they described as 'torture,' enduring broken bones, a fractured skull, and fatal brain injuries. And when she struggled to breathe the night before her death, the man accused of killing her allegedly refused to seek help, fearing too many questions.
The murder trial of Jamario Mitchell, 32, began this week in Lee County Justice Center. Mitchell is charged with murder in the 2021 death of Ivy Baker, his girlfriend's two-year-old daughter. Prosecutors allege by the time first responders arrived at the Cherry Circle home on the morning of November 12; Ivy had been dead for hours—her body showing extensive signs of abuse, including a skull fracture, broken ribs, broken collarbone, and deep bruising.
Ivy's mother, Chasity Baker, is also charged with murder and will be tried separately.
Jurors listened to the 911 call Baker made in the morning, 'I need the police or an ambulance right here. My baby, she is not responding.'
Investigators say the evidence will show Mitchell and Baker were the only adults with Ivy in the hours leading up to her death; prosecutors say Mitchell was alone at times with the toddler as the mother ran errands. A forensic examiner is expected to testify her injuries were consistent with prolonged abuse, describing multiple contusions to her scalp, broken collarbone, rib, deep back bruising, and a fatal acute subdural hematoma.
The prosecution also revealed a neighbor had urged Baker and Mitchell to seek medical help the night before when Ivy appeared to be struggling to breathe. Instead, Mitchell allegedly refused, telling them, 'No hospital, they're gonna ask questions. I can't do that.' Instead, Mitchell allegedly suggested using a nasal aspirator and Vicks VapoRub.
Mitchell's defense attorney countered in opening statements, arguing there was no direct evidence tying his client to the fatal injuries.
'Let's be clear from the start: There is no evidence Mr. Mitchell ever harmed this child at any point in time. Nobody is going to take the stand and testify they saw Mr. Mitchell strike, hit, or harm this child in any way.'
The defense cautioned jurors against assuming Mitchell's guilt simply because he was present.
After opening statements, first responders and investigators described the disturbing scene they encountered. Medics testified Ivy's body was cold and stiff, indicating she had been dead for several hours before 911 was called. The lead investigator told jurors both Baker and Mitchell behaved strangely, with Mitchell immediately trying to establish an alibi.
Prosecutors say in the days leading up to her death, Ivy's babysitter and aunt noticed the typically cheerful child becoming increasingly whiny and withdrawn. The aunt even attempted to take Ivy home, but Mitchell allegedly refused.
As testimony resumes, it remains unclear whether Baker will testify for the prosecution or the defense if she even testifies. Prosecutors are expected to present forensic and medical evidence detailing the extent of Ivy's injuries while the defense continues to argue a lack of direct proof against Mitchell.
WRBL will continue to follow up on this case as the trial unfolds.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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