Winnetka mother arrested for death of 3-year-old from contact with unknown substance, police say

The mother of 3-year-old twins was arrested after one of the toddlers died and the other was left in critical condition in Winnetka after police said they had consumed or been exposed to an unknown substance.

Jestice James, the boys’ mother, was arrested on suspicion of murder after officers responded to a 911 call about the boy’s death at a home on Sherman Way near Winnetka Avenue, Los Angeles police said Friday. Officers found both boys unconscious when they arrived at the scene around 11:20 a.m., and paramedics soon arrived, police said.

Paramedics performed life-saving measures on the boys, but police said both were taken to a nearby hospital.

One of the toddlers was confirmed dead at the hospital, while his brother is still in critical condition, police said.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the children had ingested or been exposed to an unknown substance,” the LAPD said in a statement.

James and other residents of the house were taken to the LAPD Topanga Community station for questioning. After further investigation, officers arrested James, and the other people interviewed are no longer under investigation, police said.

Since the investigation is ongoing, no further details have been released.

Anyone with information can call Detective Ortiz at 818-374-5415. Afterhours or weekend calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or visit lacrimestoppers.org.