Arizona Mother Charged with Attempted Murder After Alleged Attack on 8-Year-Old Son Using Household Items

In a deeply disturbing case out of Mesa, Arizona, 36-year-old Erica Encinas faces multiple felony charges after allegedly attempting to kill her 8-year-old son, who has special needs, using various household items. The incident, which occurred on May 26, has shocked the local community and drawn national attention.

Alleged Sequence of Attacks

According to court documents and police reports, Encinas made several attempts to end her son’s life. Prosecutors allege that she first tried to strike the boy with a rock. When that failed, she purportedly attempted to smother him with a trash bag, then choked him using a rosary. Additionally, reports indicate she struck him with tile flooring. Encinas later called 911 herself to report the incident. The child was transported to a local hospital and is expected to recover from non-life-threatening injuries.

Intervention by Sibling

During the attack, Encinas’ 12-year-old daughter reportedly tried to intervene to protect her brother. In response, Encinas allegedly bit her daughter.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

Encinas has been charged with attempted first-degree murder, aggravated assault, and child abuse. She is currently held on a $250,000 cash bond. During her initial court appearance, prosecutors revealed that Encinas had been planning the attack for some time, initially intending to drown her son in a canal.

Community Reaction

Neighbors expressed shock and disbelief over the incident. Jay Magana, who lives across the street, stated, “We’re neighbors… and sometimes, families fight. Most of the time, I see the kids playing outside, being good, and we wave when we go by. But when you hear something like that, it’s shocking.”

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities have not disclosed whether Encinas has a history of mental illness or substance abuse. Child Protective Services are involved in the case, and the investigation is ongoing.

This case underscores the critical importance of mental health awareness and the need for community vigilance in recognizing and reporting signs of domestic abuse.