A heartbreaking case has shocked California and the nation. A mother is now facing murder charges after she allegedly killed her 11-year-old son just after a trip to Disneyland. The incident happened during a custody visit and just before the child was set to return to his father.
Custody Arrangement Ends in Tragedy
According to the Orange County District Attorney, Saritha Ramaraju had shared custody of her son with her ex-husband since their divorce in 2018. As part of their agreement, she had taken her son on a three-day trip to Disneyland.
But what was supposed to be a joyful time between mother and son ended in a tragedy that authorities are calling deeply disturbing.
911 Call Leads to a Shocking Discovery
On March 19, when the child was supposed to be returned to his father, Ramaraju made a chilling call to 911. She told dispatchers that she had killed her son and had also taken pills in an attempt to end her own life.
Police rushed to the La Quinta Inn in Santa Ana, California, where the call was made. There, they found the boy’s body in a motel room. A large kitchen knife was discovered at the scene, believed to be the weapon used in the crime.
Mother Arrested and Charged
Saritha Ramaraju was arrested at the scene. She has now been officially charged with one felony count of murder and an added felony enhancement for using a deadly weapon.
If found guilty, she could face a maximum sentence of 26 years to life in prison. Authorities have not released many more details, as the case is still under investigation.
A Case That Has Left Many in Shock
This case has left the Santa Ana community, and many across the country, in shock and sadness. It raises serious concerns about child safety during custody visits and the emotional struggles some parents may be facing.
The District Attorney’s office and child protection officials are continuing to investigate all details surrounding the incident to better understand what led to such a heartbreaking outcome.