Baldwin Park Man Charged With Murder in Toddler’s Death

A Baldwin Park man accused of killing his 21-month-old son was charged today with one count each of murder and assault on a child causing death, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced.

David Paz Vasquez, appeared for arraignment today but the hearing was postponed to July 10 in the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Pomona Branch, said the District Attorney office in a press statement. 

The criminal complaint alleges that Vasquez killed the child on June 12.  If convicted as charged, Vasquez faces a maximum prison sentence of 25 years to life.

Sheriff's officials say the 21-month-old boy, identified as Joshua Vázquez, suffered a leg injury about a year ago that was investigated by the Department of Children and Family Services.

During an autopsy performed by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner, doctors "ruled it is a homicide, caused by blunt force trauma to torso and head," reported the SGV Tribune. 

"Visually, the child had injuries to his torso, including the side of the torso, and the head," Detective Ed Brown told the newspaper. 

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