MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – The mother of Baby Grace Carlson Santa Cruz had additional charges filed against her Monday.
Sarah Toney is now charged with homicide by child abuse. Toney told police last week she lost the child in a Socastee creek on Tuesday. It was a neighbor who called the police Tuesday morning. In the call, the neighbor said Sarah Toney showed up on her back porch soaking wet.
An autopsy was conducted Friday after crews found Baby Grace’s body in the Socastee creek Thursday afternoon. Horry County Deputy Coroner Darris Fowler ruled her death a homicide and remains under investigation.
I am heartbroken over the devastating loss of my daughter, Grace. I feel pain and sadness that I never imagined existed. I only hope and pray that Grace will not be forgotten.
In a just-released police incident report, Toney was asked by an officer why she walked into the creek with Grace. She told him that it was because the baby was crying and then told him it was because, “I was trying to find God.”
Police arrested Toney on an outstanding, unrelated charge on Tuesday. She was charged with unlawful neglect towards a child on Wednesday. On Thursday, the judge denied Toney bond.
Baby Grace’s father, Patrick Olberg, released a statement through his attorney’s office, the Maguire Law Firm, Monday afternoon regarding the death of his 5-month-old daughter.
I am heartbroken over the devastating loss of my daughter, Grace. I feel pain and sadness that I never imagined existed. I only hope and pray that Grace will not be forgotten.
We are extremely grateful to the Horry County Police, Horry County Fire and Rescue and all of the other agencies that worked so hard to find Grace. We have been touched and humbled by the overwhelming love and support shown by our neighbors, friends and volunteers who searched for Grace. I could never properly express my appreciation for all you have done.
My family and I will be forever grateful for your support. We would ask for privacy and continued compassion during this most difficult time. – Patrick Olberg
