An Orlando woman accused of intentionally starting a house fire in August that killed one of her children and wounded another has been charged with first-degree murder.
On Monday, August 26, at around 6:30 p.m., Orange County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the 7200 block of Hiawassee Oaks Drive in Orlando after receiving reports of a house fire, according to OCSO.
The sheriff’s office stated that a mother – later identified as 26-year-old Esther Thelus – and her two children were transported to a local hospital for treatment of “serious injuries” that were sustained in the fire.
One of the children, identified as 9-month-old Da Vinci Joseph, passed away from his injuries.
A thorough homicide investigation ensued. In an update on Tuesday, November 5, OCSO stated that detectives have determined that the mother, Thelus, “intentionally caused the fire” that claimed the life of her 9-month-old son.
Thelus’ surviving child was released from the hospital shortly after the fire.
According to OCSO, Thelus remains hospitalized, and she is now facing charges of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder.
No further details were provided by law enforcement.