Las Vegas Babysitter Arrested for Fatal Stabbing of 3-Year-Old, Sparks Community Shock
March 26, 2025
In a tragic incident in Las Vegas, a 41-year-old babysitter named Marketta Phillips has been arrested for allegedly stabbing a 3-year-old girl, Journei, to death.
The stabbing occurred early on March 26, 2025, when Journei's father returned home to find her injured and called 911.
Upon arrival at the hospital, Journei succumbed to her injuries shortly after being treated.
Phillips appeared in court on March 27, where she was ordered to be held without bail and is scheduled for another court appearance on April 1.
The investigation is ongoing, with police looking into Phillips' relationship with the child's father, as she had been living with the family.
Notably, Phillips had been placed on a 72-hour mental health crisis hold just a week prior, indicating concerns about her mental well-being.
At the crime scene, detectives discovered notes written in red marker, suggesting Phillips' disturbed mental state, with messages like 'See what happens when you [mess] with people’s lives'.
When police apprehended Phillips, she was found covered in blood with multiple knives around her, having fled the scene before being caught.
Family members, including Journei's aunt, expressed profound grief and shock over the incident, highlighting the tragedy of trusting someone with their child.
Lieutenant Robert Price of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police stated that the incident appears to be isolated and reassured the community that there is no ongoing threat.
Neighbors have expressed horror at the incident, emphasizing the typically safe and close-knit nature of their community.
The motive behind the stabbing remains unclear, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event.
Summary based on 12 sources
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Sources

Fox News • Mar 28, 2025
Babysitter stabs 3-year-old girl to death in Las Vegas: police
Las Vegas Sun • Mar 26, 2025
Woman charged in juvenile's stabbing death in Las Vegas
Channel 13 Las Vegas News KTNV • Mar 26, 2025
Babysitter reportedly stabs and kills 3-year-old girl, says LVMPD