Van Nuys Tragedy: Mother Accused of Drowning 7-Year-Old Daughter in Bathtub, Shocking California Community

A horrifying tragedy has rocked the Van Nuys neighborhood of Los Angeles after a mother was arrested for allegedly drowning her 7-year-old daughter in the family’s bathtub. Authorities say the incident took place on Friday, April 5, 2025, inside a quiet apartment complex near the 15000 block of Saticoy Street, turning what seemed like an ordinary day into one of unspeakable sorrow.

The mother, whose name has not been publicly released pending formal arraignment, is now facing murder charges in what investigators are calling a deeply disturbing case of maternal filicide. The Los Angeles Police Department responded to the residence around 1:45 p.m. after receiving a distress call about a child who was not breathing. When first responders arrived, they found the young girl unresponsive in a bathtub filled with water.

Despite immediate life-saving efforts by both paramedics and fire personnel, the child was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers on site detained the mother, who allegedly made statements indicating her involvement in the child’s death. She was arrested without incident and taken into custody for questioning.

A Shocking and Heartbreaking Scene

According to LAPD spokesperson Officer Tony Im, officers and emergency personnel were visibly shaken by the scene inside the apartment. The mother allegedly made “concerning statements” that led detectives to believe the act was intentional. While an official motive has not been confirmed, police have stated that mental health is being considered a possible factor.

“The sheer tragedy of this case has touched everyone involved,” said Officer Im. “This wasn’t just the loss of a child—it was the loss of trust, safety, and innocence. To have it allegedly caused by her own mother makes it all the more difficult to process.”

Authorities believe the child had been in the tub for some time before the emergency call was made. The exact timeline of events is still being pieced together by the department’s Juvenile Division, which is leading the investigation.

Community Stunned by the News

The apartment complex where the incident occurred is home to dozens of families, many of whom expressed shock and sorrow upon hearing what had happened just steps away from their front doors.

“I saw the little girl playing out here all the time,” said one neighbor, who asked to remain anonymous. “She was sweet, always smiling. I just can’t understand how something like this could happen.”

Residents in the Van Nuys neighborhood have since begun organizing a candlelight vigil to honor the memory of the young girl, who attended a local elementary school and was known for her cheerful spirit and love of animals.

“She wanted to be a veterinarian,” said a former teacher who spoke briefly with local media. “She was full of life, curiosity, and compassion. This is a loss that’s going to be felt deeply by everyone who knew her.”

Investigators Focus on Mental Health, Prior History

As part of the ongoing investigation, child welfare officials and police are looking into the family’s history to determine whether there were prior signs of abuse, neglect, or mental health crises. It is currently unclear if the family had any previous involvement with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), though an internal review is underway.

Mental health professionals are urging the public not only to mourn the loss of the young victim but also to recognize the importance of mental health resources for struggling parents.

“This case is a devastating reminder of what can happen when a parent suffers in silence,” said Dr. Marlene Yu, a clinical psychologist based in Los Angeles. “We need to do more as a society to ensure there are lifelines available to families in distress.”

Charges and Legal Proceedings

The mother is currently being held without bail in the Los Angeles County Jail. The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office has confirmed that she will be charged with murder and child endangerment, with her arraignment expected to take place early next week.

Authorities are also working closely with DCFS to determine the safety and well-being of any other children or relatives who may have been in the home at the time.

Outpouring of Grief and Support

Since news of the tragedy broke, community members have shown an outpouring of love and support. A growing memorial of flowers, candles, balloons, and stuffed animals now lines the front of the apartment building where the incident took place. Messages such as “Fly High, Sweet Girl” and “Gone Too Soon” are written on handmade signs placed by grieving neighbors and classmates.

Local schools are offering counseling services for students and staff affected by the tragedy. The school district has also released a statement expressing their condolences and commitment to supporting the community during this traumatic time.

“We are heartbroken over the loss of one of our young students,” the statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and teachers as we navigate the pain of this tragic event together.”

As Los Angeles mourns the senseless loss of a bright young soul, investigators continue to seek answers in a case that has left an entire community stunned and searching for meaning. The story is one of heartbreak, grief, and a desperate call to action—a reminder that behind every closed door, there may be unseen battles, and every life deserves protection and care.

If you or someone you know is struggling with parenting, mental health, or child safety concerns, please reach out for help. Call the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. Support is available 24/7.