Father Told Police He Was “Playing Rough” Before Infant’s Death; Lincoln Couple Charged

A Lincoln couple is facing serious charges after their 4-month-old daughter died from injuries consistent with shaken baby syndrome, according to police and newly released court records.

Authorities say Ryan Greenwood, 36, called 911 on the morning of Aug. 14 from the couple’s apartment near 27th Street and Woods Boulevard, reporting that his infant daughter was dead. When officers arrived, both Ryan and his wife, 28-year-old Tanya Greenwood, were at home.

Ryan allegedly admitted to investigators that he had been “playing rough” with the baby the previous day, after which she cried uncontrollably. He told police he gave her a bottle and put her to bed late that night. Hours later, Tanya noticed the baby had not woken up at her usual time. Ryan said when he checked on her, she was cold and unresponsive. He attempted CPR, then called his mother before contacting 911.

Tanya, however, gave a different account. She told investigators she had returned from grocery shopping to find the baby crying in what she described as “the worst cry I had ever heard.” Tanya reportedly wanted to seek medical help, but said Ryan told her not to, according to the local CBS affiliate KOLN.

An autopsy later confirmed the child died from a traumatic brain injury consistent with violent shaking. A child abuse specialist at Children’s Hospital determined the injuries were non-accidental and said the baby’s chances of survival might have improved if medical care had been sought sooner.

Investigators also uncovered disturbing details. Tanya admitted she had seen Ryan shake the baby on previous occasions when frustrated. Court records further reveal she searched online for information about shaken baby syndrome in the days following her daughter’s death. Text messages obtained by police show Tanya questioning Ryan about other injuries she had noticed on the infant in the past.

Ryan was arrested Tuesday, followed by Tanya’s arrest on Thursday. Both were booked into the Lancaster County Jail on suspicion of child abuse resulting in death.

The couple appeared in court via Zoom for their arraignments on Thursday. A judge set bond for each at 10% of $1.5 million, with conditions that they have no contact with one another or with minors. Tanya was also ordered to surrender her passport if released.

Both are scheduled to appear in court again on Oct. 1 as the investigation continues.

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