Florida Father Faces Charges After Tragic Incident Involving Infant

A tragic incident in St. Cloud, Florida, has led to the arrest of a father who is now facing serious charges following the drowning of his infant daughter. The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office responded to an emergency call on April 21, 2024, at a residence on Steerview Street. Upon arrival, they discovered that a young child had drowned in the bathtub. Despite efforts by first responders from the St. Cloud Fire Rescue, the child was pronounced dead after being transported to HCA Florida Osceola East Emergency Room.

The investigation revealed that Joshua Ruiz-Martinez, aged 32, was responsible for supervising the child while her mother was at work. According to reports, Martinez placed his daughter in the bathtub and left her unattended for several minutes while he went to retrieve a bottle. When he returned, he found the child submerged under water. The medical examiner later confirmed the cause of death as accidental drowning. Authorities noted discrepancies between Martinez's statements and the timestamps on his electronic devices, indicating he was heavily engaged in gaming activities up until moments before the incident occurred.

In the aftermath of this heartbreaking event, Martinez expressed deep remorse during questioning, admitting responsibility for his daughter's death. He reportedly became emotional, asking officials if it was true that he had caused her death while playing a game. Charged with Aggravated Manslaughter of a Child, Martinez is currently held in Osceola County Jail without bond. This case underscores the critical importance of parental vigilance and the potential consequences of neglect. It serves as a somber reminder of the need for constant attention and care when looking after young children, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of life and the responsibilities that come with parenthood.