LA mom drowned her 7-year-old daughter in bathtub after falling into depression over immigration status, fiancé says
A tragic incident unfolded in Los Angeles when a mother allegedly drowned her 7-year-old daughter in a bathtub, sending shockwaves through the community. The mother, identified as Graciela Castellanos, reportedly fell into a deep depression due to her illegal status in the US, leading to the heartbreaking event.
The incident took place at Castellanos’ apartment in Van Nuys, where the young girl was found unconscious in the tub by first responders. A neighbor recalled hearing the chilling screams of the child pleading, “Mommy, please no!” as the tragic events unfolded.
Castellanos, 37, was arrested and charged with murder following the death of her daughter. Her fiancé, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed that Castellanos had been struggling with mental and emotional health issues, often isolating herself and experiencing episodes of distress. However, he emphasized that she had never exhibited violent behavior before.
According to her fiancé, Castellanos was devastated upon learning that she may not achieve legal residency in the US, which may have been a triggering factor in the tragic incident. Despite her struggles, he described her as an almost perfect mother who never spoke harshly to her daughter.
The couple was set to be married in two months, with plans for the fiancé to adopt her daughter. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office refrained from providing details on Castellanos’ immigration status or her daughter’s.
Footage from the scene captured Castellanos being wheeled out of the apartment in a wheelchair, with visible laceration injuries and her wrists restrained. District Attorney Nathan Hochman expressed deep sympathy for the family and loved ones of the young girl, acknowledging the profound tragedy of the situation.
Castellanos now faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in prison, with a bail set at $2 million. She is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on June 17, as the community grapples with the devastating loss of the young girl.
