‘A tragedy beyond words’: Chelsea mother facing charges in connection to death of 3-year-old son

CHELSEA, Mass. — A Massachusetts woman was arrested Tuesday in connection with the death of her 3-year-old son who was found unresponsive in a Chelsea apartment over the weekend.

Jennifer Prudencio, 25, of Chelsea is facing involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment of a child charge, Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden announced Tuesday.

Police were called to Prudencio’s Spencer Avenue apartment Sunday morning where they found her son, Yael Guardado-Prudencio, 3, unresponsive.

“It’s really tough. It breaks your heart,” said Rai, a neighbor who knows the suspect.

Rai says the 25-year-old single mother was in a tough situation raising three young kids. He tells Boston 25 Prudencio had just gotten out of a toxic relationship about six months ago.

The Suffolk County DA’s Office has not yet revealed the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

Balloons, candles, flowers, and stuffed animals now sit outside the entrance of the Acadia Apartments in remembrance of the little boy.

“Very sad to see a little kid just die after seeing him a couple of days ago,” said Osmond Lima, neighbor. “As an adult we have to take responsibility.”

“The death of someone so young is a tragedy beyond words. My heart goes out to all who knew and loved this young boy, and to the police and emergency services personnel who responded to the scene that sad morning,” Hayden said.

Prudencio is expected to be arraigned in Chelsea District Court on Wednesday.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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