$2,500 Reward for Information in Heartbreaking Troy Toddler Homicide

Police Seek Answers in the Homicide of a 1-Year-Old

A family is grieving, a community is shaken, and police are determined to get answers for baby Zaniyla. If you know something or have heard something, your information could make a critical difference.

New York State Police, Crime Stoppers, and multiple Capital Region law enforcement agencies are asking for the public’s help as they investigate the heartbreaking death of 1-year-old Zaniyla Hill. This case has been officially ruled a homicide.

Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $2,500 for information that leads directly to the arrest and conviction of the responsible person or persons.

What Happened to Baby Zaniyla

According to investigators, Zaniyla was being watched by friends of her mother in Troy on August 1, 2025, when the child began acting unusually. Her mother, Ziayah Hill, rushed back immediately and found her baby unresponsive.

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Zaniyla was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Troy and later transferred to Albany Medical Center due to the severity of her condition. Tragically, she passed away five days later, on August 6, 2025.

An autopsy revealed that Zaniyla died from a lack of oxygen to her brain, caused by inner-skull bleeding. The medical examiner ruled her death a homicide.

A Multi-Agency Investigation

The Watervliet Police Department, the Troy Police Department, New York State Police Troop G BCI, and NYS Crime Stoppers are all working together on this active, ongoing investigation.

Detectives believe someone knows something, and they say that even the smallest detail could help them understand what happened to this beautiful little girl.

You Can Help

Authorities are urging anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward. All tips remain confidential. The NYS Crime Stoppers Tip Line is 1-866-313-TIPS (8477)