LAND O’LAKES, Fla. (WFLA) — In a tragic turn of events, the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office has apprehended 40-year-old Justine Mroz, charging her with second-degree homicide following the death of her son on Sunday.

The investigation into the heartbreaking incident began earlier in the day when officials announced they were looking into the homicide of a juvenile male. The case took a shocking twist as the suspect, who is the boy’s mother, contacted authorities to report the tragedy at approximately 9:50 a.m.

While the sheriff’s office has been cautious in releasing details, they confirmed that deputies responded to the scene on Drexel Road in Land O’Lakes. This quiet community is now the backdrop for a deeply unsettling situation.

Adding another layer to this distressing story, Pasco County School officials have verified that Mroz is employed as a teacher within the district. In a statement to 8 On Your Side, the school officials acknowledged her role in the county’s educational system, linking the personal tragedy to the broader community.

Pasco County School officials confirmed to WFLA that Mroz is a teacher for Pasco County schools in a statement to 8 On Your Side:

Pasco County Schools can confirm that Justine Mroz is employed by Pasco County Schools. She has been arrested by the Pasco Sheriff’s Office and will not be on any school campus. In accordance with Pasco County Schools policy and employee privacy laws, no additional information will be provided at this time. On behalf of the entire Pasco County Schools family, we extend our deepest condolences to all who are grieving. We are deploying crisis teams to provide care and support to those affected by this heartbreaking event.

Jessica Meek, public information officer, District School Board of Pasco County

Neighbors told 8 On Your Side they are questioning child safety after hearing a mother is allegedly involved in the death investigation of her own son.

“[It’s] very disturbing,” said Shalonda Canady, of Land O’ Lakes. “It’s like wow … nowhere is safe in America these days.”

The mother of four said she moved to the area in 2020 with her family for a fresh start.

“That’s why I work hard to move in–I thought better area for them and from the looks of things, you just got to basically stay prayed up these days because they’re not even safe with their parents,” Canady said. “It’s like, ridiculous.”

Canady said she hopes justice is served for the child.

No information was released on the child’s age, cause of death or a potential motive.