Stepmom Accused of Fatally Poisoning Toddler

(Elmira, New York) A 24-year-old local woman, Melissa S. Engelhardt, has been accused of the alleged fatal poisoning of her 21-month-old stepson, Andrew Cianfrini, last November. She faces first-degree manslaughter charges.

Calling herself "Mama Bear" on her MySpace page, Engelhardt allegedly slipped poison into the boy's juice. He was found dead on November 10.

The Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of death as poisoning by methanol, a common ingredient in anti-freeze.

Police think Melissa Engelhardt put the toxic chemical in Andrew’s juice. [Elmira Police] Captain Kain explains why Engelhardt's charged with manslaughter, not murder.

“You could intentionally poison somebody, but not mean to kill them and as a result from the poisoning he ended up dying,” Captain Kain said.

Engelhardt was booked into custody at the Chemung County Jail. Police say she may face additional charges.

Tip: slwlion