A shadow fell over the Pocitos neighborhood last Friday night. A 28-year-old police officer died after falling from a building balcony, holding her two-month-old baby. The tragic event took place near the intersection of Bartolito Mitre and Baltasar Vargas.
The officer had three young daughters. Her 12-year-old and 3-year-old were also present. Reports from News Agency indicate the mother suffered a sudden health crisis. She reportedly tried to jump with all three of her children.
During this terrifying moment, her eldest daughter showed immense bravery. The 12-year-old managed to break free from her mother. She then quickly pulled her 3-year-old sister away. The two girls rushed to neighbors for help.
Police units quickly responded to the emergency call. They arrived to find the mother and her infant daughter. Both were bleeding from head injuries. An emergency medical team also came to the scene. They confirmed the deaths of the officer and her baby at 10:45 PM that Friday. Forensic Police then worked to process the scene.
According to the Ministry of Interior, the officer had been on medical leave for about three years. Her last assignment was at the Unified Command Center.
Officials moved quickly to care for the surviving children. Prosecutor Diego Pérez of the 5th turn Flagrancy Unit was informed. Judge Juvenal Javier, from the 6th turn Specialized Family Court, made a crucial decision. He ordered the younger daughters be placed with a responsible family member. They were first taken to the Police Hospital for temporary care. Officers from the 10th Pocitos precinct handled their transfer. The Ministry of Interior’s Victim and Crime Violence Care Center is now helping the girls. They are working with INAU, the National Institute for Children and Adolescents of Uruguay.