Indian-Origin Mother Faces Charges for the Death of Her Two Sons in New Jersey

Authorities in New Jersey have apprehended a 35-year-old woman of Indian descent, accused of murdering her two young sons in a shocking incident that has left the local community reeling.

The suspect, Priyatharsini Natarajan, hails from Hillsborough Township in Somerset County. Law enforcement began investigating the case after a distress call was made on the evening of January 13, reportedly by the children’s father.

At approximately 6:45 pm, the man dialed 911 soon after returning home from work, stating that he found his two sons, aged five and seven, unconscious in their home. He informed the dispatcher that he suspected his wife was involved in the children's condition.

Upon arrival, police found Natarajan and the father present at the residence. Investigating officers discovered the two unresponsive boys in a bedroom.

Despite immediate medical attention, emergency personnel were unable to revive the children, who were pronounced dead at the scene.

Somerset County Prosecutor John McDonald stated this week that investigators believe Natarajan was responsible for her sons' deaths. However, specifics regarding the method or circumstances of the incident have yet to be revealed by authorities.

The identities of the children remain undisclosed, and officials have indicated that their names will be released only after confirmation by the Medical Examiner’s Office following legal procedures.

Natarajan has been taken into custody by the Hillsborough Township Police and faces two counts of first-degree murder, along with a third-degree count for possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes. Details about the alleged weapon have not yet been provided.

Following her arrest, Natarajan was taken to the Somerset County Jail and is expected to have a detention hearing. A judge will determine if she will be held without bail pending trial.

The investigation involves multiple agencies, including detectives from the Hillsborough Township Police, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, and medical investigators from New Jersey's Northern Regional Medical Examiner’s Office.

Authorities have sealed the home for forensic examination and have scheduled a postmortem examination that will confirm the children’s identities and determine the cause of death, which are crucial for the ongoing criminal case.

Prosecutor McDonald assured the public that the investigation is active, with further updates to be shared as evidence is gathered and interviews are conducted.

The nature of this case has sparked widespread concern due to the youth of the victims. Local authorities have requested that the public refrain from speculation while the legal process unfolds.

No information has been released regarding potential motives, mental health factors, or prior involvement of child protective services, all of which will be scrutinized as part of the investigation.

If found guilty, Natarajan could face life imprisonment under state law, with further developments in the court anticipated in the upcoming weeks as prosecutors prepare for trial.

Law enforcement has reiterated their commitment to a thorough investigation while respecting the privacy of those impacted by this tragedy.