A 19-year-old Rothville resident has been charged with murder for allegedly killing her infant child on March 18.
According to a probable-cause statement, authorities were called to a residence in the 300 block of Main Street in Rothville and determined that Sarah M. Linebaugh knowingly caused the death of her 2-month-old daughter– after deliberation– by suffocating her. Linebaugh then attempted to take her own life by shooting herself. She was transported to a hospital for medical treatment.
Authorities found a handwritten note at the scene that leads them to believe Linebaugh deliberated about her actions, which resulted in the death of the infant.
According to online court documents, a warrant has been served and Linebaugh has been charged with a Class A Felony for First-Degree Murder. Bond has been set at $100,000 cash only.
Linebaugh’s initial hearing at Chariton County Circuit Court is pending.