NEW YORK (AP) — A 19-year-old man has been charged with the brutal murders of three family members, including a child, in their Bronx apartment. Jayden Rivera is accused of killing his father, his father’s girlfriend, and their 5-year-old son, identified as 38-year-old Jonathan Rivera, 33-year-old Hanoi Peralta, and 5-year-old Kayden Rivera.

The victims were found stabbed to death inside their home on Cypress Avenue in Mott Haven early Sunday morning. Police stated that the suspect was babysitting his half-brother while his father and his father’s girlfriend went out on a date, but the motive behind the killings is not yet known.

A neighbor reported hearing men yelling and fighting Saturday night, adding, “There was this last thing, where the man went … ahh and it might have been the fatal blow and then it got quiet.” Rivera has been charged with murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon.

This tragic and senseless act has left the community in shock and mourning. The horrific nature of the crime has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of families in the neighborhood. The police are advocating for anyone with information to come forward to help with the ongoing investigation.

The accused, Jayden Rivera, remains in custody as the authorities continue to piece together the events leading up to the murders. The devastating loss of Jonathan Rivera, Hanoi Peralta, and little Kayden Rivera has deeply impacted the local residents, prompting an outpouring of support and condolences for their family. As the investigation progresses, the community remains vigilant and hopeful for justice to be served in this heartbreaking case.