A San Francisco family is mourning the loss of their three-month-old daughter after the infant died during her first day at a licensed daycare in the Bayview neighborhood.
Authorities are investigating the incident, while police say there is currently no evidence of foul play.
Medical Emergency at Daycare
The infant, identified as Cya Terrell, was dropped off Friday morning at Mama Nida’s Loving Arms Childcare by her mother, Gwenisha Terrell, a San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) bus operator.
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, Gwenisha had recently returned to work after maternity leave, and Friday marked the first time Cya attended the daycare. Her older sister, two-year-old Cia, was also at the facility that day.
The daycare is operated by Anita Saulny-Green and her daughter and is licensed to provide child care.
Parents Rushed to the Scene
According to the family, the daycare contacted Gwenisha after Cya reportedly stopped breathing following a choking incident involving milk.
Gwenisha and her husband, Cecil Terrell, arrived at the daycare within minutes and accompanied their daughter in the ambulance as paramedics performed CPR.
Cya was transported to UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
According to reports, doctors attempted to revive the infant after she had been without oxygen for approximately 30 minutes.
Investigation Underway
The San Francisco Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is investigating the cause of the baby’s death.
The San Francisco Police Department said investigators have found no evidence of foul play, although the investigation remains ongoing.
According to the Chronicle, the California Department of Social Services received two complaints about the daycare in 2024. Both complaints were investigated and determined to be unsubstantiated.
| Incident Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Child | Cya Terrell, 3 months old |
| Location | Mama Nida’s Loving Arms Childcare, Bayview |
| Date | Friday |
| Reported Incident | Choking on milk |
| Investigation | Ongoing |
| Foul Play | No evidence found, according to police |
Family Mourns Loss
Speaking to the Chronicle, Gwenisha Terrell described her daughter as a healthy and happy baby.
“My baby was so happy. Nothing was wrong with her. She was so healthy. I don’t even know how she passed away,” she said.
The family is now seeking answers as investigators continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Community Support
A GoFundMe campaign has been created to help the Terrell family cover funeral expenses.
The fundraiser had raised approximately $6,000 at the time of reporting.
Officials have not announced whether any additional actions will be taken pending the outcome of the medical examiner’s investigation.
FAQs
Where did the incident happen?
It occurred at Mama Nida’s Loving Arms Childcare in Bayview.
How old was the baby?
The infant was three months old.
What is believed to have happened?
The baby reportedly stopped breathing after choking on milk.
Is foul play suspected?
Police said there is currently no evidence of foul play.
Is the case still under investigation?
Yes. The medical examiner and police continue to investigate.
