DURHAM, N.C. — A tragic case has come to light in Durham, where an autopsy report reveals that a baby girl was set to be removed from her home just a day after she was killed. The report states that Ana Galan-Rodriguez was scheduled to be taken to a foster family, but sadly she was murdered the night before. Her father, James Galan Cruz, is facing charges of murder in connection to the case.
At the time of the offense, Cruz was 17 years old. His attorney appeared in court on his behalf in a recent hearing, providing a status update on the case. The attorney mentioned that they had just received the autopsy report and hinted at the need for an expert to assist in the case. Additionally, the defense attorney expressed the possibility of requesting a bond reduction for his client, in an effort to secure his release from jail while awaiting trial.
The circumstances surrounding the case are deeply troubling. It was previously reported that multiple family members were charged with child abuse for leaving Cruz unsupervised with the baby, which was prohibited due to a prior allegation of abuse. The medical examiner’s report further outlines the extent of the infant’s injuries, including broken bones, internal bleeding, and a bite mark on her abdomen.
The autopsy determined that Ana Galan-Rodriguez died from acute and chronic blunt force injuries, shedding light on the horrific nature of her passing. Upon further inquiry, the State Department of Health and Human Services, responsible for overseeing local Departments of Social Services, declined to comment on specific cases but emphasized the responsibility of local DSS agencies in developing timelines and seek necessary court approvals for child removal from relatives’ homes.
It is clear that more foster homes are urgently needed to care for children, especially those with complex needs. The case is scheduled for another status update in April, as the community grapples with the tragic loss of this innocent child. This heartbreaking incident sheds light on the importance of child welfare and the challenges faced by social service agencies in ensuring the safety of vulnerable children.