Oklahoma Pediatrician Arrested in Connection with Daughter’s Death
The tragic case of a four-year-old girl found lifeless in a Miami-Dade swimming pool has taken a grim turn, as authorities charge her mother, Dr. Neha Gupta, with first-degree murder. The incident, which occurred on June 27, has left many in shock, and the investigation has raised serious questions about the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
Details of the Incident
According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO), Dr. Gupta, a 36-year-old pediatrician from Oklahoma City, is accused of staging her daughter’s drowning. Authorities apprehended her after a preliminary investigation indicated possible foul play.
During the tragic incident, local police received a 911 call early on Friday morning, with the dispatcher relaying urgency as they were informed of a child struggling in a pool. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue transported the child to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Witnesses reported that a woman was present in the rental property but was unable to assist the girl in the water. Investigators are still determining whether this woman was Gupta or a different individual.
Response from the Attorney
Dr. Gupta’s attorney, Richard L. Cooper, expressed his profound disappointment with the MDSO’s actions, describing the arrest warrant as “flimsy” and asserting that Gupta was merely a grieving mother. He stated that she had cooperated fully with law enforcement and had even met with the police at their request.
“Common decency would dictate that a little more than one day’s worth of investigation transpire before making such a dramatic move,” Cooper added, highlighting Gupta’s tragic loss and the devastating impact of her current situation, which includes missing her daughter’s funeral.
Circumstances Surrounding the Tragedy
Investigations revealed that Dr. Gupta and her daughter had traveled from Oklahoma City and were staying at a short-term rental in El Portal, just north of Miami. The two were reportedly in the midst of a custody battle, and the child’s father had no knowledge of their trip to Florida.
An autopsy conducted by the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner found that the child’s lungs and stomach were devoid of water, leading to a conclusion of “dry drowning.” Moreover, injuries on the child, including mouth cuts and bruising consistent with asphyxiation, raised alarms among authorities.
Table of Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Mother’s Name | Dr. Neha Gupta |
| Child’s Age | 4 years old |
| Location of Incident | El Portal, Miami-Dade |
| Initial Cause of Death | Dry drowning; asphyxiation injuries |
| Charge | First-degree murder |
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the shock of such a tragic event, compounded by the serious allegations against a mother who is now facing the most severe legal consequences. The case serves as a somber reminder of the complexities surrounding familial relationships and the devastating consequences that can emerge.
