Young Mother – Elkins Drowned And Stabbed Her Children To Death In Lakewood
Lakewood, NJ – In a tragic incident that has left the community in shock, two young children were found dead in their home on Tuesday afternoon. The Lakewood Police Department received a distress call at approximately 4:50 p.m., reporting that two children were in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, officers discovered Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) from Hatzolah Medical Services attempting to resuscitate a 1-year-old and a 3-year-old child.
Despite the EMTs’ best efforts, both children were pronounced dead at the scene. Initial investigations revealed that both children had drowned, and the 1-year-old had also sustained stab wounds. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has identified the children’s mother, Elkins, as the primary suspect in their deaths. Elkins has been charged with two counts of murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon.
The investigation into this horrific event has been a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies, including the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Authorities have not released information about any other children Elkins might have or who made the initial emergency call. As of now, Elkins remains in custody at the Ocean County Jail in Toms River, awaiting a detention hearing.
Community Response and Investigation
The Lakewood community, known for its close-knit and family-oriented nature, has been deeply affected by the news. Vigils and memorials for the children have been organized as neighbors and friends try to make sense of the tragedy.
According to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, the investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to gather all relevant information. “This is a heartbreaking case,” Billhimer said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and the community as we continue our investigation.”
Billhimer also emphasized the collaborative effort of the various law enforcement and emergency response teams involved. “The swift response and coordinated efforts of all the agencies involved were crucial in handling this tragic situation. We are committed to ensuring justice for these innocent children.”
Legal Proceedings
Elkins is currently facing serious charges, including two counts of murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon. These charges indicate the severity of the incident and the gravity with which the legal system is treating the case.
The detention hearing will determine whether Elkins will remain in custody or be released on bail while awaiting trial. Given the nature of the charges, it is anticipated that the prosecution will argue for continued detention, citing the risk of flight and the potential danger to the community.
Child Welfare Concerns
The deaths of the two children have also raised significant concerns about child welfare and the measures in place to protect vulnerable children. Authorities have not disclosed any previous history of intervention by child protective services in the family’s case, nor have they provided details on Elkins’ background or any potential signs of distress or instability.
This case underscores the importance of vigilance and early intervention in preventing such tragedies. Community leaders and child welfare advocates are likely to call for a review of current protocols and support systems to identify gaps and improve preventive measures.
As Lakewood mourns the loss of two young lives, the community is left grappling with questions and a profound sense of grief. The investigation continues, and authorities are committed to uncovering all the facts surrounding this heartbreaking event.
In the coming days, more information is expected to emerge, shedding light on the circumstances that led to this tragedy. For now, the focus remains on providing support to the grieving family and ensuring that justice is served for the innocent lives lost.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the critical need for strong community ties and effective support systems to safeguard the well-being of children.
