A Memphis father is accused of k!ll!ng his 3-year-old son before allegedly placing the little boy’s body inside a suitcase and leaving it in a wooded area near Wolf River Harbor.
According to investigators, 3-year-old Joseph Martinez was reported missing by his mother on July 19 after she told police he had last been seen with his father, 22-year-old Saul Martinez, the previous day. Authorities say Saul was not the child’s custodial parent and had taken Joseph without permission.
Court documents state Saul’s father told investigators that around midnight, Saul entered his room asking for money before taking his vehicle without permission.
He allegedly watched his son drag a large brown suitcase to the car and drive away. Hours later, Saul returned the vehicle before leaving again in his own car.
When Saul returned home the following morning without Joseph, family members questioned where the toddler was.
Investigators say he first claimed the child was with friends before admitting Joseph had died and telling relatives he had left the boy’s body near the Wolf River. Police say Saul then led detectives to a wooded area where they located Joseph’s body inside the suitcase.
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Authorities have not released a motive.
Saul Martinez has been charged with:
▪️ First-degree m¥rd£r
▪️ First-degree m¥rd£r during the perpetration of a felony
▪️ Aggravated child @buse
▪️ @buse of a c0rpse
▪️ Tampering with evidence
As of Wednesday, court records did not list a plea on his behalf.
The family has described Joseph as a little boy who deserved a lifetime of birthdays, laughter, and love. A fundraiser has been established to help with funeral expenses as loved ones mourn the heartbreaking loss.
All persons accused are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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