PASCO COUNTY, Fla. (October 19, 2025) — A community is in shock and mourning after the Pasco Sheriff’s Office confirmed it is investigating the murder of a young boy, whose body was discovered Saturday morning in the area of Drexel Road. Authorities say the case involves the child’s own mother, who has been identified as the primary suspect.
According to deputies, around 9:50 a.m., the adult female suspect — the mother of the victim — contacted 911 dispatchers to report the incident herself. When deputies arrived on scene, they found the juvenile male deceased under tragic and disturbing circumstances. Despite immediate response from law enforcement and emergency personnel, the child could not be saved.
Detectives with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit have launched a full-scale homicide investigation, focusing on the events that led up to the child’s death. The Sheriff’s Office has not yet released the boy’s age, name, or specific cause of death, citing the ongoing and sensitive nature of the case.
“This is a deeply tragic and heartbreaking situation,” said a spokesperson for the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. “Detectives are working tirelessly to determine exactly what happened and why.”
Authorities have confirmed that the incident was isolated, emphasizing that there is no threat to public safety and no other suspects are being sought at this time. The mother was detained at the scene, and investigators are continuing to interview her and process evidence collected from the home and surrounding area.
Neighbors in the typically quiet Drexel Road community described the scene as emotional and overwhelming. Several residents reported seeing a heavy law enforcement presence throughout the morning, with crime scene tape blocking off parts of the neighborhood as detectives worked.
“It’s devastating,” one neighbor shared. “You never think something like this could happen so close to home — especially to a child. Everyone here is heartbroken.”
The Pasco County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official cause and manner of death, while investigators review all possible factors, including family circumstances and prior history.
As the investigation unfolds, community members and local organizations are coming together to express sorrow and raise awareness about the importance of mental health support, domestic violence prevention, and child safety resources.
Authorities have not released further details, but more information is expected once the investigation progresses.
Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Pasco Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay.
This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the innocent lives lost to violence and the need for continued vigilance and compassion within our communities.
May this young child rest in eternal peace.
Gone far too soon — forever loved, forever remembered.
