A Sandy Springs babysitter is facing a murder charge in the death of a 5-month-old boy left in her care. But, the babysitter is on the run, and investigators aren’t sure if she’s still in the country.
Caris Ayala was babysitting Angel Pantoja at her Sandy Springs apartment Oct. 5 when she reported the boy was “unresponsive,” according to police. The baby was transported by ambulance to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite, where doctors determined he had a severe brain injury and was in critical condition, Lt. Steve Rose with Sandy Springs police said.
Investigators contacted a social worker, who interviewed the baby’s parents and Ayala. Ayala gave an initial statement to detectives, but when they wanted to question her further, she said she needed an attorney, Rose said.
“At that time, an attorney contacted detectives and made arrangements for Ayala to re-interview, however she never showed at her attorney’s office on the day of the interview,” Rose said in an emailed statement. “She has not been seen nor heard from since that time.”
The baby died Friday night after being removed from life support, according to police.
Ayala is believed to be traveling with her husband, Noe Castillo-Ramirez, and the couple’s 7-month-old baby, police said. A warrant has been taken for Castillo-Ramirez, who will be charged with hindering the apprehension of a felon when captured.
Because the couple has ties to El Salvador, Guatemala and Mexico, investigators believe the two could be attempting to leave the country or may have already left.
“They could be held up somewhere,” Rose said.
Federal authorities and border control officials have been alerted to the wanted couple, Rose said. Ayala was last seen in a black Toyota T-100 truck with Georgia tag BKM9384.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Ayala is urged to contact Sandy Springs Detective Steve Rose at 770-551-3313 or Detective Mike Bailey at 770-551-3308. Anonymous tipsters can also contact Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477).
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