In a heartbreaking and shocking incident, a mother from California has been charged with the murder of her 11-year-old son. The tragic event occurred during what was supposed to be a joyful family trip to Disneyland. Chilling body cam footage of the arrest has been released, revealing the mother’s unsettling calmness as she approached officers with blood reportedly on her hands.
Arrest Captured on Body Cam Video
According to authorities, the suspect, identified as 48-year-old Saritha Ramaraju, was apprehended on March 19 at around 9 AM at the La Quinta Inn in Santa Ana, California. Police say Ramaraju called 911 on herself after allegedly stabbing her son to death.
The body cam video shows Ramaraju calmly approaching officers while holding a phone to her ear. The officers, with their guns drawn, quickly handcuffed her as one of them can be heard noting, “blood on her hands.” Police proceeded to search the motel room where the child was discovered.
Child Found Dead Among Disneyland Souvenirs
Inside the motel room, officers discovered the body of the 11-year-old boy, who had suffered apparent stab wounds. According to police reports, the child was found surrounded by Disneyland souvenirs, a chilling reminder of the trip they had just completed.
Investigators state that a large kitchen knife, which was allegedly purchased by Ramaraju the day before the incident, was also found at the scene. Police believe the boy had been deceased for several hours before Ramaraju made the 911 call.
Motive Remains Unclear
Authorities are still investigating what could have driven Ramaraju to allegedly commit such a horrendous act. Reports indicate that she and her son had recently wrapped up a three-day trip to Disneyland. The day of the incident was supposed to be when Ramaraju returned her son to his father, whom she divorced in 2018.
According to police, Ramaraju reportedly consumed pills in a suicide attempt after allegedly taking her son’s life. However, her attempt failed, and she later called the police herself.
Legal Charges and Detention
Following her arrest, Ramaraju was hospitalized for treatment and later released into police custody. She has since been charged with one felony count of murder, one felony enhancement of personal use of a weapon, as well as additional charges of child endangerment, torture, and aggravated mayhem.
Currently, Saritha Ramaraju remains in custody at the Orange County Jail as the investigation continues.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The tragedy has drawn widespread attention and concern from the public. Authorities continue to search for answers regarding Ramaraju’s motives, while the child’s father and other family members are left to grieve the loss of a young life cut short.
Conclusion
This heartbreaking case highlights the devastating effects of unresolved issues and mental health struggles. As the investigation progresses, the community mourns the loss of an innocent child who had just enjoyed what should have been a joyful family vacation. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information related to the case to come forward.
More details will be reported as the investigation unfolds.
