Plantation, Florida – Authorities have identified the victims of an apparent double murder and attempted suicide in Plantation, Florida. Sara Ashley Gama, 38, and her 2-year-old son, Ethan Aponte, were found dead inside their home on Northwest 97th Avenue. The father, 40-year-old Jean Carlos Aponte, was discovered unconscious at the scene due to a drug overdose and is currently in critical condition at a local hospital.
Officials are treating the incident as a suspected murder-suicide attempt, with Jean Carlos Aponte as a suspect in the deaths of his wife and child. The authorities have not disclosed the methods used in the killings and are continuing their investigation into the tragic event.
The neighborhood surrounding the home has been a focal point of the investigation, with authorities conducting door-to-door inquiries and additional search efforts in the area. The Plantation Fire Rescue team also responded to the scene, with divers checking the waterway behind the house for any possible evidence related to the case.
Neighbors describe the family as longtime residents of the area, having lived in the home for approximately five years. One resident shared footage from a Ring camera showing Jean Carlos Aponte taking a walk with his son just a day before the incident. Family members have taken custody of the newborn baby who resided in the home along with Ethan and his parents.
The community is reeling from the tragedy, with neighbors expressing shock and sadness over the events. Gilda Howell, a neighbor, described the family as “lovely people” and expressed devastation over the loss, highlighting the impact on her grandchildren who played with Ethan.
In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, resources are being shared for those in crisis. Individuals in need of support can contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit websites like 988lifeline.org and SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional assistance.