The father charged in the deaths of his twin babies was released on bail as his family members and neighbors reel from the shock of what appears to be a tragic accident.
The New York Post obtained video of Juan Rodriguez, 39, as he was released to a crowd that included his grieving wife. Rodriguez’s wife is seen embracing him before they both get into a vehicle. Members of the emotional crowd are heard cheering; according to the report, several members of Rodriguez’s family were awaiting his release.
As CrimeOnline previously reported, Rodriguez is facing multiple charges after his twin infants, Phoenix Rodriguez and Luna Rodriguez, were found dead and foaming at the mouth in his car on Friday. Rodriguez reportedly told police he forgot his children were still in his car when he arrived to his job at a VA Hospital in Kingsbridge, where he is a social worker for homeless and sick veterans.
According to a criminal complaint obtained by the New York Post, Rodriguez was distraught when police arrived at the scene, and immediately confessed to forgetting his children in the car.
“My babies are dead! I killed my babies!” he reportedly said.
Multiple sources who spoke to the New York Post, including neighbors who had seen Rodriguez with his children, described Rodriguez as a doting father and a good man. Rodriguez himself is reportedly a disabled veteran who served in the Iraq war.
The video obtained by the New York Post shows his wife, Marissa, dressed in black, welcoming him with a tight embrace after his release.
Rodriguez’s mother was also at the courthouse on Saturday when her son appeared before a judge.
“Do you know what I’m scared of?” his mother, Cathelina Valerio, told the newspaper.
“When he gets out, he can’t handle it. He’s going to need help.”
Rodriguez and his wife also have a 4-year-old son; and Rodriguez reportedly has two older children from a previous relationship, according to the New York Post.
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