ROYAL OAKS, CA — A tragic infant death at an unlicensed California daycare has resulted in the arrest of two women accused of operating the illegal childcare facility from their home in Monterey County.
Authorities responded to a 911 call Saturday morning around 10:30 a.m., reporting that a 3-month-old baby was unconscious and not breathing at a home in the Royal Oaks community. Emergency personnel performed life-saving measures before transporting the infant to a local hospital, where the child was later pronounced dead.
During the investigation, deputies discovered the residence was allegedly functioning as an unlicensed daycare, caring for up to 30 children of varying ages without proper authorization or oversight. Officials arrested 62-year-old Maria Marquez and her 35-year-old daughter, Johanna Marquez, on suspicion of involuntary manslaughter, felony child endangerment, and operating a daycare facility without a license.
Both suspects were booked into Monterey County Jail with bail set at $50,000 each.
The infant death at the unlicensed California daycare has sparked concern over the dangers of unauthorized childcare operations. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact Detective Josue Ramirez at 831-253-6068. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at mcso.countyofmonterey.gov/anonymous-crime-tip.
