A 33-year-old California father has been charged with murder in the death of his 2-year-old son after allegedly telling investigators he planned to kill his entire family before being interrupted, according to the San Benito County Sheriff's Office.
Background
Adrian Joseph Lujan was arrested following a violent incident at an apartment complex in the 100 block of The Alameda in San Juan Bautista, roughly 45 miles south of San Jose. Deputies responded to a "baby not breathing" call and discovered the toddler unconscious and not breathing on a couch. Medics rushed the boy to a children's hospital where doctors later pronounced him dead.
The Investigation
The girlfriend, 34, told deputies she was sleeping when Lujan allegedly woke her up and began strangling her. She was able to fight him off, authorities said. After escaping his attack, she searched for her son but initially could not find the boy in his bed. She later discovered the toddler on the couch, blue and appearing unconscious. Her 4-year-old child was also in the apartment and was unharmed.
Deputies began a manhunt after Lujan fled the scene in a Ford Fusion. Using traffic cameras, investigators tracked him to Merced County where they pursued and arrested him following "a physical encounter," according to the Sheriff's Office.
In an interview with detectives, Lujan allegedly confessed to the murder of his son. He has been charged with murder and attempted murder; child endangerment charges are possible, authorities said.
Key Takeaways
- Adrian Joseph Lujan, 33, is facing murder and attempted murder charges in San Benito County Superior Court
- The victim was his 2-year-old son; a 4-year-old sibling survived the incident unharmed
- His girlfriend fought off the attack and called 911, saving herself and their other child
- Sheriff Eric Taylor said investigators believe Lujan "planned to kill his entire family before being interrupted based on his statement"
- Authorities have yet to establish a motive in the killing
What's Next
Lujan remains in custody at San Benito Jail without bail. His next court date has not yet been scheduled, and formal arraignment proceedings are pending.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to determine what prompted Lujan's alleged attack on his family.