A 38-year-old Illinois mother has been charged with first-degree murder after her two-year-old son was found dead in the basement of the family home, with prosecutors alleging that she described the child as the “anti-Christ” and “devil”.

Corie Walsh’s son Barrett was discovered hanging from the rafters by a neighbour, who called emergency services and attempted CPR. The child was pronounced dead at the scene, and an autopsy later determined that he died from asphyxiation.

Mother allegedly linked son to ‘devil’

According to prosecutors, Walsh told investigators that she killed Barrett because she believed he was the “devil” and the “anti-Christ”.

Authorities allege that the toddler was found with his feet off the ground and a ligature around his neck.

Walsh was later found lying fully clothed in a bathtub containing bloody water. Police determined that she had attempted to harm herself and she was taken to hospital. Her injuries were not considered life-threatening.

Three other children were found unharmed inside the home.

Lindsay Clancy case mentioned hours earlier

Prosecutors have also highlighted Walsh’s reported interest in the high-profile Lindsay Clancy case in Massachusetts.

According to court information reported by US media, Walsh exchanged messages with friends about the case at around 12.30 pm on Tuesday, approximately three hours before Barrett was found dead.

Clancy, a Massachusetts mother and nurse, was accused of killing her three children before attempting suicide. She said she had been suffering from postpartum psychosis. Her trial ended in a mistrial this week.

Authorities are examining the timing of Walsh’s messages as part of the case against her.

Investigation continues as charges await court hearing

Walsh’s husband was reportedly out of town when the incident occurred and returned to Illinois later that evening.

While in hospital, Walsh allegedly described to investigators how Barrett was killed. Prosecutors said her account was consistent with evidence recovered from the scene.

Once medically cleared, Walsh is expected to be transferred to the Will County Adult Detention Facility, where she will await a detention hearing.

The case remains under investigation, and the allegations against Walsh have yet to be tested in court.