Woman Arrested For Allegedly Stabbing 3-Year-Old Son In Cudahy
CUDAHY (CBSLA.com) — A 23-year-old woman was arrested Tuesday for allegedly stabbing her toddler at their home in Cudahy.
Around 8:39 p.m. on Monday, deputies were sent to a rescue call in the 3800 block of Walnut Street.
Upon their arrival, authorities located a 3-year-old boy suffering from an apparent stab wound to his upper torso area, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.
Paramedics transported the victim to a hospital where he remains listed in grave condition.
Neighbors reported the victim's mother ran out of the home holding her son while screaming, and his father called 911. The scene was described as chaotic.
Detectives interviewed the victim's parents and 9-year-old sister. His parents explained they were cutting lemons off a tree in their yard before the toddler was accidentally stabbed.
A preliminary investigation revealed enough information to lead authorities to believe that the victim's mother intentionally stabbed her son once in his chest.
Michelle Betancourt was subsequently arrested in connection with the stabbing. She is being held on $1 million at the East Los Angeles Sheriff's Station for attempted murder.
CBS2's Kara Finnstrom reported social services is now involved in the case, and will look into take the sister into protective custody.
The father has been cooperating with officials.
No other injuries were reported.
The motive for the stabbing remains unknown at this time.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.