Missing toddler declared dead; order opens door for lawsuit
PORTLAND, Maine — A toddler whose disappearance more than five years ago sparked the biggest criminal investigation in state history was declared legally dead on Wednesday, allowing her mother to proceed with a civil lawsuit targeting those she believes to be responsible for her death — including her father.
Cumberland County Probate Judge Joseph Mazziotti ruled that a preponderance of the evidence supports his finding that toddler Ayla Reynolds died on or around Dec. 17, 2011.
Ayla’s father told police he believes she was abducted from the home where they were staying in Waterville, but state police investigators have discredited his story. Detectives say Ayla’s blood was found in the basement bedroom where her father slept.
No one has been charged with a crime.