California Mom Convicted of Murder After Baby Dies From Burns

A Sacramento mother has been convicted of murder after her infant daughter died from severe burns sustained in a hot bath. Kristina Huemann Siedlecki was found guilty after her 8-month-old daughter, Jannah Abughazaleh, died on August 25, 2024, from second- and third-degree burns over 30% of her body.

Investigators determined that Siedlecki did not seek medical attention for her child out of fear of legal repercussions, which ultimately led to the infant's death. According to the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, Siedlecki’s husband, Hussein Abughazaleh, placed Jannah in a bath with dangerously hot water.

When Siedlecki returned home, she observed the infant's skin was red and peeling. Despite the visible injuries, neither parent sought medical care. Phone records indicated that Siedlecki was aware of the severity of her baby’s injuries and the dangers of leaving them untreated.

She later told authorities that the infant's breathing changed, her body became limp, and she eventually became unresponsive. "Instead of calling 911, Siedlecki went on social media while her husband contacted a friend for help nearly 45 minutes later. Siedlecki’s failure to obtain medical care resulted in the death of her child," the DA’s office stated.

Jannah’s paternal grandmother, Naomi Magness, had previously contacted Child Protective Services with concerns about the couple's ability to care for the child. Magness told KCRA 3 in December 2024, "She lost her life. She didn’t even have a chance to live a life and you [CPS] screwed up not taking the baby out."

The infant’s father, Hussein Abughazaleh, was also arrested on murder charges in 2024. He died on January 26, 2025, after experiencing a severe medical emergency while in custody at the Sacramento County Main Jail. A judge granted him compassionate release shortly before his death.

Siedlecki faces a maximum sentence of 15 years to life in prison. Her sentencing is scheduled for October 23, 2026.