Caregiver Charged After Tragic Drowning Claims Lives of One-Year-Old Twins in Odessa

On October 16, 2024, the Odessa Police Department and Odessa Fire Rescue responded to a report of two drowning victims on the 800 block of Humble. Upon arrival, officers and medics found one-year-old twins suffering from what is believed to be drowning. Despite the best efforts of first responders and emergency medical staff, both infants were rushed to Medical Center Hospital but unfortunately did not survive.

During the investigation, detectives discovered that 34-year-old Joan Reyes de Jesus was caring for the twins at the time of the incident. De Jesus had been hired by the mother specifically for the children’s care. It was revealed that de Jesus placed the twins in the bathtub, turned on the water, and then left the bathroom to watch television.

After an unknown period, de Jesus went to sleep, and evidence suggests that approximately 30 minutes or more passed before family members realized the twins were in the bathtub.

Joan Reyes de Jesus has been charged with Injury to a Child, a First-Degree Felony. Authorities have stated that the investigation is still in its early stages, and additional charges may be filed as more information comes to light.