A Wisconsin woman was arrested Monday and charged with first-degree reckless homicide in connection with the death of her 5-year-old daughter, who investigators say drowned in a bathtub that prosecutors described as "urine-filled" and "dirty."
Background
On October 22, 2025, Merrill police officers responded to a call regarding a child drowning in a bathtub at a residence on North Cedar Street. Officers found the girl unresponsive, and she was pronounced dead approximately one hour later at a local hospital.
The child's mother, Katelyn Nardi, told investigators she was bathing the girl when she left the bathroom for approximately five minutes to retrieve clothing. When she returned, she found her daughter lifeless, according to statements from Nardi's fiancé. However, police said Nardi provided inconsistent information about the events of that day.
The 5-year-old had epilepsy and was prescribed multiple medications, including Levetiracetam. Nardi told police she did not give her daughter the medication on the day she died, though she claimed to have administered it the night before.
An autopsy report revealed that Levetiracetam was not found in the girl's system, suggesting she had not received the anti-epilepsy medication for several days prior to her death. Officials noted that abruptly discontinuing the medication can trigger seizures.
This is not the first child to die while in Nardi's care. Her 5-month-old daughter died in 2023, according to court records.
The Charges
Lincoln County prosecutors charged Nardi with first-degree reckless homicide and child neglect resulting in death. Investigators alleged the home was littered with dirty laundry, garbage, and dog feces and urine. Prosecutors described the bathtub where the girl died as "urine-filled" and "dirty."
Assistant District Attorney Jacob Collinsworth is handling the case. Nardi's bond was set at $150,000. Her fiancé has not been criminally charged.
Nardi allegedly called social services before dialing 911 after finding her daughter unresponsive, a detail prosecutors noted during the initial appearance.
Key Takeaways
- The 5-year-old had epilepsy and was prescribed Levetiracetam, an anti-seizure medication
- Autopsy findings indicated the girl had not received her medication for several days before dying
- Officials warn that abruptly stopping Levetiracetam can cause seizures
- This is the second child to die while in Nardi's care; her infant daughter died in 2023
- The home was described as having dirty laundry, garbage, and animal waste throughout
What's Next
Nardi remains in custody at the Lincoln County Jail on $150,000 bond. Her next court appearance has not yet been scheduled. The case continues under investigation by the Merrill Police Department and Lincoln County District Attorney's Office.