Jury deliberations underway in Opelika 2-year-old murder trial

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) - The trial of Jamario Mitchell, accused of killing his girlfriend's two-year-old daughter Ivy Baker, has reached its conclusion, with a jury now deliberating after three emotionally charged days of testimonies and evidence presentation. The courtroom was filled with grieving family members as the defense and prosecution delivered their closing arguments.

During the trial, the prosecution presented a compelling case, detailing the traumatic injuries Ivy sustained, including two broken collar bones, a broken rib, and a severe contusion on her skull. These injuries, described by a medical expert as "exquisitely painful," culminated in a fatal acute hematoma, indicating that Ivy endured a prolonged and agonizing death.

The state emphasized the gravity of the evidence, arguing it proved beyond a reasonable doubt that Mitchell was responsible for Ivy's death on November 11, 2021. They highlighted the circumstances surrounding the 911 call and Ivy's discovery unresponsive in her bed, revealing the severity of her injuries that, according to the medical examiner, were comparable to those suffered in a major vehicle accident.

In a poignant moment during closing arguments, the prosecution played the 911 call again, leading to a solemn atmosphere in the courtroom. The jury was urged to piece together the timeline and connect the dots regarding the events leading up to Ivy's untimely demise.

The defense, in contrast, encouraged jurors to draw their conclusions based on the evidence presented, maintaining that they should assess the case independently as they move towards making a crucial verdict regarding Mitchell's culpability.