A 26-year-old Nevada woman is facing murder charges after her 14-month-old daughter died of starvation under what prosecutors describe as deeply neglectful conditions. Alivia Thrift was indicted on charges of murder and child abuse following the death of her daughter, Evangelina “Eva” Thrift, in Henderson, Nevada in March.
What Investigators Found
When police arrived at Thrift’s apartment, they found the infant’s crib and bassinet covered in dried vomit. A car seat on the floor was in similar condition. Investigators described the overall living conditions as unsanitary, with signs of clear neglect throughout the home. Insects were also found inside the residence.
Eva was discovered covered in bug bites and open sores, which a medical examiner testified were likely caused by the child lying for extended periods in bodily waste and decaying milk.
What the Medical Examiner Testified
Clark County Medical Examiner Nathan Shaller told grand jurors that Eva died of starvation combined with severe dehydration. Her organs showed signs of extreme malnourishment. Her abdomen had become permanently sunken inward — a visible sign of severe, prolonged starvation. Her heart muscle had also begun to deteriorate before her death.
The Night Eva Died
The day before Eva died on March 24, Thrift’s half-sister Robin Yager visited the apartment and urged Thrift to call 911 or take Eva to a hospital. Thrift refused both. She also refused to let Yager inside the home, instead bringing Eva outside.
Yager told grand jurors she knew immediately upon seeing the infant that she had already passed. She called 911 around 3:30 a.m. Officers arrived to find Eva deceased.
What Happens Next
Thrift faces charges of murder and child abuse resulting in substantial bodily harm. Her trial is scheduled for March 2027, with a readiness hearing set for October 22.