A Tennessee man was arrested after he allegedly killed his 3-year-old son and left his body in a suitcase in a wooded area.
The Memphis Police Department confirmed in a press release that a child, who has since been identified as Joseph Martinez, was found dead inside a suitcase in a wooded area in Memphis, Tennessee, on Monday, July 20.
Police said that the boy’s father, Saul Martinez, has since been arrested on several charges including first-degree murder, first-degree murder in perpetration of a felony, aggravated child abuse, abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence.
An investigation into the matter began on Sunday, July 19, when Joseph’s mother reported him missing, according to an affidavit viewed by Us. The mother told police that she had last seen her son with Saul, 22, the day before.
Saul’s father, Octavio Martinez, also spoke to police and told them that the defendant came to his room around midnight on Saturday to ask for money. He then allegedly took his car keys without permission.
Octavio claimed that he saw Saul dragging a large suitcase to the car, which he placed in the front passenger seat. He then allegedly drove away.
Saul reportedly returned several hours later and gave Octavio the car keys back before he left again. Saul then returned to the home on Monday morning and family members confronted him about what happened. It was during the conversation that he allegedly admitted to leaving his son’s body in a wooded area connected to the Wolf River Harbor.
After leading authorities to the scene, investigators then inspected the suitcase and found Joseph’s body inside.
Saul was arrested on Monday and appeared in court on Friday, July 24, where a judge ruled he will be held in the Shelby County Jail without bond.
It is not currently clear if Saul has entered a plea. The Memphis Police Department had no updates to share about the case when contacted by Us.
Following Joseph’s death, his loved ones set up a GoFundMe page to help his family financially during the difficult time.
“Joseph was more than a name. He was someone’s precious baby, grandson, and loved one,” the post read. “He had a whole life ahead of him — a life that should have been filled with laughter, birthdays, hugs, playing, learning, and growing up surrounded by those who loved him,” reads part of the fundraiser. “Today, we grieve for baby Joseph. We say his name. We honor his precious life. And we stand together with a family whose hearts have been forever changed.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing child abuse, call or text Child Help Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.
