Moorhead woman pleads guilty to second-degree murder in toddler's death

Shiann Lynn Erickson entered the plea before Judge Tammy L. Merkins for the March 2024 death of 3-year-old Eastyn Deronjic.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:34am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a small, worn stuffed animal lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, and investigative aesthetic.The harsh flash illumination of a child's toy evokes the grim realities of a tragic case of child abuse and neglect.Moorhead Today

A Moorhead, Minnesota woman has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the 2024 death of a 3-year-old boy in her care. Shiann Lynn Erickson entered the plea before a judge, with sentencing scheduled for May. The child, Eastyn Deronjic, died from blunt force trauma according to a final autopsy report.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of child abuse and neglect, and the need for stronger safeguards to protect vulnerable children. It also raises questions about the oversight and monitoring of caregivers entrusted with the wellbeing of young children.

The details

Court records show Eastyn's mother told investigators her children had been living with Erickson and co-defendant Mason Garza since August 2023. Garza previously pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and is serving a 20-year prison sentence. Erickson had initially pleaded not guilty, but has now changed her plea to guilty on the second-degree murder charge.

  • Eastyn Deronjic died on March 18, 2024.
  • The final autopsy report was released in July 2025.
  • Erickson's sentencing is scheduled for May 20, 2026.

The players

Shiann Lynn Erickson

A Moorhead, Minnesota woman who has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the 2024 death of a 3-year-old boy in her care.

Eastyn Deronjic

A 3-year-old boy who died from blunt force trauma in March 2024 while in the care of Shiann Lynn Erickson and Mason Garza.

Mason Garza

The co-defendant charged in the case, who previously pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and is serving a 20-year prison sentence.

Judge Tammy L. Merkins

The judge presiding over Shiann Lynn Erickson's case in Clay County District Court.

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What’s next

Erickson's sentencing is scheduled for May 20, 2026, where the judge will determine her final sentence.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the critical need for stronger oversight and accountability measures to protect vulnerable children from abuse and neglect, even when they are placed in the care of trusted adults.