Parents of Deceased 5-Year-Old in Silver City Face Felony Charges

Tragic Circumstances Unfold in Silver City

In Silver City, New Mexico, the tragic death of a 5-year-old girl has led to the arrest of her parents, Music Adame, 34, and Matthew Bynum, 38, on felony charges related to child abuse. The incident, which occurred on March 10, prompted a response from the Grant County Sheriff’s Department following reports of a non-responsive child at a residence on Quail Run Road.

Deputies Respond to Distressing Scene

Upon arrival, deputies encountered a distressing scene. Lapel videos revealed the efforts of law enforcement as they found two minimally responsive adults and a responsive 7-year-old boy. However, the 5-year-old girl, Xaqueline Bynum, was discovered beneath her sleeping parents in a cluttered room, unresponsive.

Parents’ Troubling Admission

The parents, Adame and Bynum, were slow to respond to deputies’ instructions. Adame admitted to drug use, including marijuana and methamphetamine, but claimed she had not used since the previous day when the family celebrated Xaqueline’s birthday at the park.

Tragic Cause of Death Unveiled

Investigations revealed that Xaqueline’s death was primarily due to carbon monoxide poisoning. The family lived in a tiny home without running water or a stable heat source. To keep warm, they burned coals inside the home, a practice that had previously resulted in illness for the children.

Concerns Raised by Authorities

The 7-year-old boy was hospitalized for dehydration and pneumonia, attributed to a lack of proper care by the parents. Additionally, a hair follicle test showed exposure to methamphetamine. Child Protective Services had been alerted to the family’s situation on multiple occasions, with concerns ranging from living conditions to physical and emotional abuse.

Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings

Following the tragic incident, the 7-year-old boy was placed in the custody of Child, Youth, and Family Services (CYFD). Adame and Bynum now face serious charges, including first-degree felony charges related to the death of their daughter and subsequent abuse of their surviving child.

Conclusion: Seeking Justice for Xaqueline

The death of Xaqueline Bynum has brought to light not only a heartbreaking loss but also systemic failures in protecting vulnerable children. As legal proceedings unfold, authorities are faced with the sobering task of seeking justice for Xaqueline and ensuring the safety of her surviving sibling.

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