In a tragic and shocking incident, a mother from Lakewood, New Jersey, has been accused of killing her two young children. Naomi Elkins, 27, is facing charges of murder and unlawful possession of a weapon after allegedly drowning her 1-year-old and 3-year-old children in the bathtub of their home on Shenandoah Drive. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has also revealed that the 1-year-old was stabbed.
The horrifying events unfolded on Tuesday afternoon when Lakewood Police received a call about two children in cardiac arrest. Officers arrived at the scene around 4:50 p.m. to find Hatzolah Medical Services performing CPR on the children. Despite their efforts, both children were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators quickly determined that Elkins was responsible for the deaths of her children. She was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Ocean County Jail, where she is awaiting a detention hearing scheduled for July 1. Elkins appeared in court via video link on Wednesday, where she acknowledged understanding the charges against her.
The Lakewood community, known for its close-knit nature, is reeling from the incident. The home on Shenandoah Drive, a multi-story residence with a garage, children’s toys, and a basketball hoop in the yard, now stands as a grim reminder of the tragedy. Many residents are struggling to comprehend how such an act could occur. “Everyone is visibly shaken,” one woman said. “I just don’t understand how somebody could do this to a 1- and 3-year-old.”
Further details about the events leading up to the tragedy have not been released, and the motive behind the killings remains unclear. Elkins’ husband was reportedly out of state when the incident occurred, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has charged Elkins with two counts of murder and unlawful possession of a weapon. The investigation revealed that both children were drowned, and the 1-year-old had also been stabbed. The prosecutor’s office has not disclosed any additional information about the weapon used in the stabbing.
The case has drawn significant media attention, with various news outlets covering the story. The community’s shock and grief are palpable, as residents grapple with the loss of two innocent lives. “This is a very united community. I can’t imagine how the neighbors are feeling and how other people are doing,” another resident commented.
Elkins’ attorney has not yet responded to requests for comment. The upcoming detention hearing will likely provide more insights into the case and the legal proceedings that will follow. As the community mourns, the focus remains on seeking justice for the two young victims and understanding the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking event.
The tragic deaths of the two children have left a lasting impact on the Lakewood community. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of mental health and support systems for families. As the investigation continues, authorities and community members alike are searching for answers and ways to prevent such tragedies in the future.
In the meantime, the community is coming together to support one another during this difficult time. Vigils and memorials are being planned to honor the lives of the two young children and to provide a space for collective mourning and healing. The loss of these innocent lives has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew them and the broader community.
As the legal process unfolds, the focus will remain on ensuring that justice is served and that the memory of the two children is honored. The Lakewood community, though shaken, will continue to support one another and work towards healing in the wake of this unimaginable tragedy.
Source: CBS New York, NBC Universal, News 12
