A Manteca day care owner has been arrested following the tragic death of a four-month-old boy under her care. Authorities say the infant, Christian Olvera, became unresponsive while at Cherished Years Daycare, operated by Roxanne Helus from her home on Merlin Lane.
According to KCRA, Helus was allegedly intoxicated at the time the baby stopped breathing on October 22. Manteca police officers responded to a 1:25 p.m. emergency call and found an adult already performing CPR on the infant. Officers took over life-saving efforts until paramedics and the Manteca Fire Department arrived, ABC10 reported.
Christian was first taken to a nearby hospital, then transferred to Oakland Children’s Hospital, where he sadly died on Friday. Police said there were no visible signs of trauma, and the cause of death will be determined by an autopsy.
Helus was initially booked on felony child endangerment charges. Following the boy’s death, authorities said she could face additional charges, including causing death to a child under eight years old. According to CBS Sacramento, Helus has since posted bail.
When officers arrived, three other adults and four children were present at the day care, but none were injured. The California Community Care Licensing division is assisting in the ongoing investigation.
Police have not released details on how long Helus has operated the day care or whether there were any prior complaints or violations.
The Manteca Police Department urges anyone with information to contact them at (209) 456-8101, referencing case number 25-04723.
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