A 19-year-old North Carolina man is facing murder charges after allegedly leaving his 14-month-old stepson unattended in a bathtub full of water, leading to the child’s drowning. The incident occurred Sunday at an apartment complex on Cooperline Drive in Garner, a town just outside Raleigh.
The Charges
Angel Deras-Rivas is charged with second-degree murder and negligent child abuse resulting in great bodily harm. Authorities allege he showed a “reckless disregard for human life” by leaving the toddler alone in the water. The child, whose name has not been released, was later pronounced dead at the scene.
He Was the Only Adult Present
According to the arrest warrant, Deras-Rivas was the sole caregiver responsible for the child at the time of the incident. He is married to the boy’s mother. Investigators say he left the infant unattended in a bathtub filled with water, though details on how long the child was left alone have not been made public.
Arrest and Court Appearance
Officers arrested Deras-Rivas and transported him to Wake County Jail, where he remains held without bond. Authorities have also placed an immigration hold on him. During a court hearing Monday, a judge appointed him a public defender. His next court date is scheduled for August 24.
What He Faces
If convicted on the murder charge as filed, Deras-Rivas faces life in prison.