Indianapolis, IN – A tragic case in Indianapolis has resulted in the arrest of two parents after their 1-year-old son, who weighed only 10 pounds, was pronounced dead just minutes after arriving at a local hospital. Police say the severity of the child’s condition, combined with visible injuries, sparked an immediate criminal investigation.
The baby, identified in court documents as Angel, was brought to Eskenazi Hospital around 10:14 a.m. on Monday. His parents, 35-year-old Wendy Alvarado and 31-year-old Dunio Duarte-Rosales, reportedly told medical staff that the child was “cold to the touch.” Within 15 minutes, doctors declared him deceased.
Evidence of Severe Malnutrition Found
Investigators said a deputy coroner noted the child was “very malnourished and underweight,” weighing just 10 pounds at one year old. Angel’s body was also reportedly marked with bruises, scratches, and scarring, raising further concerns about long-term neglect.
Police launched their investigation immediately. Alvarado declined to speak with investigators and requested an attorney, according to information contained in the court affidavit.
Other Children Found Alone in the Home
Detectives executed a search warrant at the family’s residence later that morning. Inside, they found two young children left unsupervised. The Department of Child Services was called to the scene and secured custody of them, later locating the family’s two other children at school. Officials confirmed the children appeared unharmed.
During the search, officers discovered oxycodone stored in a location easily accessible to the youngest children. Investigators stated this created an additional safety concern inside the home.
Father Admits to Drug Use Before and After Hospital Visit
When officers located Duarte-Rosales, he allegedly admitted to smoking methamphetamine both before and after taking Angel to the hospital. Detectives questioned him about the oxycodone found inside the home, and he reportedly responded that it “must have fallen” into the lower drawer while he was moving items around.
Parents Say the Child Was Premature
According to police interviews, Duarte-Rosales claimed Angel was born one month premature, and doctors informed the couple he would be small in size. He also said the child “barely eats” but was “always smiling and laughing,” adding that they never brought him to a doctor.
When asked about the bruises and scratches noted on the toddler’s body, Duarte-Rosales was unable to provide any explanation.
Final Hours Before the Hospital Visit
Duarte-Rosales told investigators that on the morning of the incident, Alvarado noticed something was wrong with Angel. When he checked the baby, he said the child felt “cold to the touch,” prompting them to take him to the emergency room.
Police said the father acknowledged discussing Angel’s poor health with Alvarado in the past, but “nothing came of it.”
Autopsy Conducted, Charges Filed
An autopsy was completed, though officials have not yet released the results. Police say the findings will play a crucial role in the next phase of the investigation.
Both parents were arrested and charged with child neglect resulting in death, a serious felony offense under Indiana law. Alvarado and Duarte-Rosales were booked into the Marion County Jail, and their bond amounts have not been listed. They are scheduled to appear in court on November 21.
This Case Highlights Ongoing Concerns About Child Neglect
While investigations are still underway, the situation has brought renewed attention to the importance of early medical intervention, especially in cases where pediatric malnutrition or unexplained injuries occur.
Neglect cases often reveal long-term patterns that go unnoticed without consistent medical care or community involvement. Authorities encourage families and neighbors to report concerns early, as delayed care can have fatal consequences for vulnerable children.
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