BROOKLYN, NY – A Brooklyn woman remains held without bail following the tragic death of her 6-year-old daughter, who was discovered lifeless in the bathtub of their Highland Park residence. Karla Espinal, 26, told police she was “baptizing her daughter” when they found little Madelyn Tavarez submerged in water with blood clots in her eyes, according to court revelations.
The presence of blood clots points to a possible struggle, suggesting the girl may have fought to survive, sources disclosed. Statements made in court documents by a family member painted a disturbing portrait of the events leading to the arrest of Espinal.
An affidavit from the Brooklyn District Attorney’s office revealed that a relative witnessed Espinal allegedly holding her daughter underwater, leading to her tragic death. Despite Espinal’s claim of baptizing the child, the legal complaint underscores the severity of the accusations.
Espinal now faces several charges, including second-degree assault and reckless endangerment, as she undergoes psychiatric evaluation and remains on suicide watch. The child was reportedly under the water for approximately 20 minutes before being rushed to Brookdale University Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.
Madelyn’s father, Jorge Tavarez, reportedly told police that his daughter was in good health just an hour before the incident. Espinal, appearing in court wearing a surgical mask, now awaits the results of an autopsy that may lead to increased charges.
Neighbors expressed their shock over the incident, describing Espinal as a mother who appeared to have a loving relationship with her daughter. Their sentiments convey the profound disbelief that has rippled through the community.
As the investigation continues, prosecutors are poised for any developments that the autopsy might reveal, potentially altering the course of legal proceedings against Espinal. Meanwhile, the grieving family has requested privacy and declined to make public statements following the arraignment.
The tragic unfolding in Brooklyn highlights significant concerns surrounding mental health and domestic settings as authorities continue to piece together the events that led to this heartbreaking loss.