Everilda Cux-Ajtzalam, an 18-year-old teen mom living illegally in the US, was arrested in Houston, Texas after allegedly abandoning her newborn baby in a dumpster. The disturbing incident took place behind the food truck where she works, where she gave birth to a baby boy on July 21. She then placed the child in a tied garbage bag and left him in a dumpster at a random apartment building.
Fortunately, a passerby heard the newborn’s cries and alerted the authorities. First responders were able to safely retrieve the baby from the dumpster and took him to Texas Children’s Hospital for evaluation. The child was found to be in good health and has since been placed in the care of Child Protective Services.
Cux-Ajtzalam reportedly confessed to investigators that she had no choice but to abandon her baby because she didn’t want her boyfriend to break up with her. Surveillance footage captured the chilling moment when she disposed of her child in the dumpster.
The teen mom, originally from Guatemala, has been charged with felony child abandonment. During her court appearance, the judge emphasized the seriousness of her actions and the danger the child was exposed to, setting her bail at $200,000. Immigration and Customs Enforcement have placed a hold on her release due to her status as a flight risk.
This tragic incident sheds light on the challenges faced by young mothers, especially those who may be living in difficult circumstances. The case also highlights the importance of mental health support and resources for vulnerable individuals like Cux-Ajtzalam, who reportedly has an undisclosed mental disability.
It is crucial for communities to come together to provide assistance and guidance to young parents who may find themselves in desperate situations. By offering support and understanding, we can help prevent such heartbreaking incidents from occurring in the future.
