South Jersey Dad Charged; Son's Fatal Injuries 'Too Numerous'

A 35-year-old South Jersey man was charged in the death of his 4-month-old son, police said. The child died after being in the hospital for nearly a week.

An investigation showed that Jose Rojas, 35, of Hamilton Township was home alone in late January with his three young children when the incident happened. Rojas told police that the child rolled off the bed, which was approximately 2-feet high.

However, doctors at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) stated that the injuries were so significant that a fall could have only caused them if it was at least 30 feet, police said.

Rojas was charged with first-degree aggravated manslaughter, second-degree aggravated assault and second-degree endangering the welfare of a child for the death, police said.

The incident happened on Jan. 29, Hamilton Township Police in Atlantic County responded to 6023 Hoover Drive, Mays Landing, for a report of an unresponsive child, police said.

Upon arrival, a 4-month-old boy was found with no pulse and he was transported to AtlantiCare Mainland Division.

Due to the critical nature of the child’s injuries, the boy was later transported to CHOP. After almost a week in the hospital, the child succumbed to his injuries on Sunday, Feb. 4, 2018, police said.

Doctors from CHOP stated that the child suffered hemorrhages in both eyes that were too numerous to count. The pattern of hemorrhages was consistent with severe trauma, specifically abusive head trauma, doctors said.

Det. Larry Fernan of the Hamilton Township Police is the lead investigator on the case. Assistant Prosecutor Dave Ruffenach represents the state.

Hamilton police photo