LAKEWOOD, NJ – In a deeply distressing incident in Lakewood, New Jersey, a mother has been charged with the murder of her two young daughters. Naomi Elkins, aged 27, faces charges of two counts of murder, weapon possession, and additional offenses following the tragic deaths of her children. The incident occurred at a residence on Shenandoah Drive in a neighborhood noted for its significant Orthodox Jewish community.
Authorities were summoned to the scene late Tuesday afternoon following reports of two children experiencing cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, first responders from Hatzolah Medical Services, a volunteer ambulance service, were attempting life-saving measures on the two girls, aged one and three. Despite their efforts, both children were pronounced dead at the scene.
An investigation revealed that the young victims were drowned, with the one-year-old also suffering stab wounds. Sources reported that the fatal events unfolded in the family’s bathtub.
The distressing scene drew considerable police and investigator activity, with authorities seen removing several items from the home. Elkins was arrested at the scene ‘without incident’ and subsequently detained at the Ocean County Jail.
The community, known for housing the world’s largest yeshiva outside of Israel – the Beth Medrash Govoha, which focuses on Torah study – is reeling from the shock. The area, which according to a 2019 Jewish News Syndicate report is home to a large Orthodox Jewish population, is typically known for its tranquility and community spirit.
Elkins, who is reported to be married and holds a master’s degree, appeared before Judge Scott Basen on Wednesday afternoon. A court date for her initial appearance has been scheduled for July 1. The motivations behind the tragic killings remain under investigation as this deeply religious community attempts to come to terms with the heartbreak.