A Georgia grandmother has been arrested and charged in connection with the drowning death of her two-year-old grandson at a resort-style clubhouse pool. Emelisa Paz-Santos, 44, faces charges including involuntary manslaughter and second-degree cruelty to children.
Police responded to the Lake House At Martin's Landing apartment complex in Roswell around 9:30 p.m. on June 21 after two-year-old Axel Delgado was pulled from the water. Bystanders performed CPR until emergency crews arrived. Axel was transported to a hospital in serious condition but died the following day. Investigators determined the cause of death was drowning.
Roswell police stated that investigators found Paz-Santos "failed to provide adequate care and supervision for Delgado, resulting in his drowning" after reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. Authorities confirmed Paz-Santos was taken into custody following a comprehensive review of evidence.
Axel's mother, Leni Paz, has publicly supported her mother, stating that the incident was a "tragic accident." She described Paz-Santos as a "loving, caring, and devoted parent and grandmother" who would never intentionally harm a child. Paz urged the public to allow the legal process to unfold and asked for compassion and understanding for the family.
Paz-Santos surrendered on Tuesday and was booked into the Fulton County Jail on Wednesday. Her bonds have been set at $35,000 for the involuntary manslaughter charge and $5,000 for the cruelty to children charge. Jail records indicate an ICE hold was also placed on her, meaning federal immigration authorities will be notified before her potential release.
Witnesses at the apartment complex described the scene as heartbreaking. One witness, who identified herself as a lifeguard, heard screaming and prayed it was not a drowning. Another witness stated that medical professionals attempted resuscitation efforts en route to the ambulance. Jail records show Paz-Santos has had prior encounters with law enforcement, including charges in 2015 for following too closely, driving without a license, and possession of a fraudulent state ID.