On July 15, 2025, police in New Jersey arrived at a home in Passaic following a call about an unresponsive child. Inside, they found 48-year-old Nakija Martin and her deceased 6-year-old autistic son. Through the course of the investigation, they learned the child had died on July 13 but Martin waited two days to call for help. When they asked what happened, it appeared she wasn’t sure.
Per a news release from the Passaic County Prosecutor, investigators spoke with Martin and learned she had attempted to die by suicide but was unsuccessful. Investigators believe she killed her son but have not determined his manner of death.
According to court documents obtained by NJ.com, Martin called 911 around 8:30 a.m. and reportedly said in a soft, calm tone, “my son is deceased,” a detective noted.
When police arrived at the apartment on Aspen Place, Maertin allegedly said she saw her son alive for the last time two days ago. Police asked her how the child died, but she seemed unclear about what happened.
“Trying to think. Maybe it was pills. I mean I choked him. Something like that,” she allegedly said. Martin reportedly told investigators, “I’m just tired.”
Her story has saddened many people who shared sympathy for the mother and her child. “Prayers you just never know what ppl be going through,” Aisha Irving wrote on Facebook.
“Dam man check on ur neighbors…say hi sometimes smile …really never know what people goin thru,” someone agreed.
One person claimed to know Martin and said the news was shocking. “I was with her the day before she was laughing and talking she was waiting for him to get off the bus but you never know what is really behind trying to put on a smile to cover up what is really happening,” the commenter wrote.
The child’s body was reportedly found cold to the touch, and rigor mortis had set in, NJ.com reported. Although investigators have not yet determined the boy’s cause of death, police have arrested Martin. She faces a charge of second-degree endangering the welfare of a child. The investigation is ongoing.
Suicide content. Add in italics and bold:Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
