Mother Delays 911 Call After Autistic Son’s Death
- A 48-year-old New Jersey woman has been charged with child endangerment after authorities discovered her 6-year-old autistic son dead in their Passaic home.
- On July 15, 2025, police responded to an apartment on Aspen Place in Passaic following a call regarding an unresponsive child.
- A detective noted that Martin called 911 at approximately 8:30 a.m.
A 48-year-old New Jersey woman has been charged with child endangerment after authorities discovered her 6-year-old autistic son dead in their Passaic home. Investigators determined that the mother waited two days after the child’s death before contacting emergency services.
On July 15, 2025, police responded to an apartment on Aspen Place in Passaic following a call regarding an unresponsive child. Upon arrival, officers found Nakija Martin and her deceased son. According to court documents, the child’s body was cold to the touch, and signs of rigor mortis and lividity were present.
A detective noted that Martin called 911 at approximately 8:30 a.m. And stated in a soft, calm tone
that her son was deceased. When questioned by police, Martin allegedly stated that the last time she saw her son alive was two days prior, on July 13, 2025.
Investigation and Charges
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office reported that investigators learned Martin had attempted to die by suicide on July 13 but was unsuccessful. Prosecutors believe she intended to kill her son on that same date.
When asked how the child died, Martin reportedly appeared unsure of the events. According to an affidavit of probable cause, she allegedly told investigators: Trying to think. Maybe it was pills. I mean I choked him. Something like that.
Martin also allegedly told investigators, I’m just tired
, and confirmed she had remained in the apartment with the child for the two days following his death.
Nakija Martin was arrested on July 29, 2025. She has been charged with second-degree endangering the welfare of a child. During a pre-trial detention hearing, Martin consented to remain in custody pending further court proceedings.
Pending Findings
While investigators believe Martin killed the boy, authorities have not yet officially determined the manner of death. An autopsy is pending to establish the official cause and manner of the 6-year-old’s passing.
The identity of the child has not been released to the public.