The tragic death of 11-month-old Jazeli Mirabal in August has been ruled a homicide after investigators discovered that she drowned in a bathtub. The incident occurred at her family’s apartment in Crotona Park East, Bronx, where she was found unconscious and unresponsive. Despite being rushed to Lincoln Medical Center, Jazeli was pronounced dead.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed on Friday that Jazeli’s death was a result of drowning, with sources revealing that she was found in a bathtub. This heartbreaking news has left the community in shock and disbelief.
It was reported that both of Jazeli’s parents had previous interactions with the city’s Administration for Children’s Services. Neighbors recounted the distressing scene of her mother frantically seeking help as she found her baby lying lifeless just inside the apartment door. The family dynamics and circumstances surrounding Jazeli’s death paint a grim picture of a tumultuous environment.
This devastating incident adds to a series of infant homicides in the city this month. Ariel Gonzalez, a 4-month-old from Mott Haven, passed away due to cocaine intoxication, while Joseph Heben Jr., a 1-month-old from Staten Island, succumbed to severe malnourishment. Both cases remain unsolved, with no arrests made as of yet.
The community mourns the loss of these innocent lives and calls for justice to be served. The heartbreaking reality of child homicides underscores the need for increased awareness, support, and protection for vulnerable individuals. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by these tragic events.
