A tragic family vacation ended in horror after a California mother was arrested for allegedly murdering her 11-year-old son at a hotel just hours after returning from Disneyland.
Saritha Ramaraju, 48, is facing multiple felony charges including murder, torture, aggravated mayhem, and child endangerment, after police say she fatally stabbed her son Yatin Ramaraju at a La Quinta Inn & Suites in Santa Ana, California.
A Disturbing Discovery
Authorities responded to a chilling 911 call on March 19, where Ramaraju herself admitted to the killing. When officers arrived at the hotel room, they found Yatin’s lifeless body on the bed, surrounded by fresh Disneyland souvenirs from their recent three-day trip. A large kitchen knife, believed to have been purchased the day before, was recovered at the scene.
Police say Ramaraju had also attempted to take her own life by ingesting a bottle of pills. She survived and was taken into custody shortly after.
Custody Dispute Tied to Tragedy
The incident reportedly occurred during a scheduled custody visitation. Ramaraju, who had moved out of state after a 2018 divorce, had taken Yatin to Disneyland with plans to return him to his father on the day of the murder. The case has reignited concerns over the risks children can face during volatile custody arrangements, especially when proper safeguards and evaluations are absent.
Legal Fallout and Upcoming Court Date
Ramaraju is currently being held without bail. Her next court appearance is scheduled for April 17. Prosecutors have described the crime as premeditated and brutal, noting the boy’s injuries were consistent with a deliberate and violent attack.
Community in Shock
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer condemned the crime, saying,
“The life of a child should never hang in the balance between two parents whose hatred for each other outweighs their love for their child.”
He emphasized the need for greater awareness around family violence and the emotional toll of high-conflict custody battles.
A Wake-Up Call for Family Courts
The heartbreaking case has raised new questions about the oversight of family visitation rights, particularly when mental health issues or red flags are present. Critics are calling for reforms that better protect children from unstable or potentially dangerous parents during custody exchanges.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a young life that should have been filled with joy and innocence—especially following what was meant to be a memorable trip to the “happiest place on Earth.”