Former Babysitter Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter

Terry McKirchy, 62, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter for the 2019 death of Benjamin Dowling, who suffered severe injuries as an infant in 1984 due to McKirchy's actions while babysitting. Initially charged with attempted murder in 1985, she received probation after a no contest plea, but a renewed investigation following Dowling's death led to her indictment for felony murder in 2021. In a letter of apology, McKirchy expressed remorse, stating she acted out of impulse and anger when she injured the 5-month-old baby, who ultimately lived with significant disabilities before his death. McKirchy was sentenced to three years in prison and ten years of probation, offering some closure to Dowling's family, who expressed their sorrow over the loss of their son. This case highlights the long-term impact of shaken baby syndrome and the need for ongoing awareness and prevention efforts. The Dowling family, while relieved by the admission, emphasized that nothing can bring back their son or restore the life he could have had.