Phoenix, Arizona — A tragic hit-and-run incident has left a Phoenix family mourning the loss of their 16-month-old son after authorities say a neighbor struck the child with a vehicle and fled the scene before later being arrested.
The heartbreaking incident occurred on Sunday, June 7, when Phoenix police officers responded to reports of a collision at an intersection in the city. Upon arrival, officers found the toddler suffering from critical injuries.
The child, identified by family members as Baby Lupe, was rushed to a local hospital. Despite emergency medical efforts, he later died from his injuries.
Police Arrest Neighbor in Connection With Crash
Following an investigation, authorities arrested Carlos Rojas Mora, 35, in connection with the fatal collision.
According to investigators, preliminary findings indicate that the toddler was not under direct supervision at the time of the incident and had wandered into a driveway where he was struck by a vehicle.
Officials also confirmed that the Department of Child Safety responded to the scene as part of the investigation.
Police allege that after the collision, Mora stopped his vehicle but did not remain at the scene. Instead, authorities say he left the area in another vehicle before law enforcement could question him.
Allegations of Attempted Escape
Court records cited by local media indicate prosecutors believe Mora attempted to leave the country following the crash.
According to those records, Mora allegedly asked a friend to drive him to Mexico. However, the friend reportedly contacted authorities in nearby Goodyear and attempted to turn him in.
Investigators say Mora ultimately ended up at another friend’s residence before police located him during a traffic stop. Authorities arrested him while he was riding in the backseat of a vehicle.
Police have not publicly confirmed all details surrounding the alleged attempt to flee, citing the ongoing investigation.
Emotional Court Appearance
During Mora’s initial court appearance, Baby Lupe’s parents delivered emotional statements describing the devastating impact of their son’s death.
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“It just hurts that he just left them there to die without helping us and trying to flee and I just want justice for my son,” Baby Lupe’s father said.
The child’s mother also addressed the court, expressing her grief over the loss of her young son.
“I lost my 1-year-old son, and I’ll never be able to get him back,” she said. “[Mora] is not even a man, he’s a monster.”
According to court records, Mora allegedly told investigators he left the scene because he feared the child’s father, who was also his neighbor, might harm him.
Community Mourns Baby Lupe
A GoFundMe campaign created to support the grieving family describes Baby Lupe as a joyful child who brought happiness to those around him.
“Baby Lupe had a smile that would light up the room,” the fundraiser states.
The campaign also noted how proud his mother was of her son and how much joy he brought to family members and friends.
Charges Filed as Investigation Continues
Phoenix police have charged Mora with hit-and-run resulting in death or injury. As of now, it remains unclear whether Mora has entered a plea or retained legal representation.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Baby Lupe.
The loss of a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking case? Share your reactions respectfully in the comments and join the conversation.
