FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Juvenile Suspect

IN-CUSTODY

On April 5, 2026, at approximately 1:06 PM, San José Police Department Patrol Officers responded to the 300 block of Otono Court for a report of a male toddler who was found unresponsive in his crib. Upon arrival, on scene medical personnel conducted life saving measures. The toddler was then transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Medical personnel at the hospital discovered the victim had several suspicious traumatic injuries and was placed on life support. Per Santa Clara County protocol, SJPD Homicide Unit Detectives were notified of the incident and responded to the scene with the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office. 

During the course of the investigation, Detectives discovered evidence to suggest a seventeen-year-old male suspect had sexually and physically abused the victim. On April 8, 2026, the seventeen-year-old suspect was located and arrested in the city of San José. He was later booked into the Santa Clara County Juvenile Hall for multiple crimes related to sexual assault and child abuse. 

On April 9, 2026, Detectives were informed the victim had succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the hospital. Detectives began investigating the incident as a homicide and worked closely with the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office to amend charges.

During the investigation, Detectives learned the victim had been placed with a foster caregiver who had a concerning criminal history. Investigators also noted the caregiver was less than cooperative and not forthcoming during initial interviews. She was arrested and booked, but later released pending further investigation.

The circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation.

This incident is being investigated as the City's 8th homicide of 2026.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Martinez #4117 and/or Detective Aboud #4468 of the San José Police Department Homicide Unit via email: 4117@sanjoseca.gov and/or 4468@sanjoseca.gov, or by calling 408-277-5283.

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