Worcester Man Charged in Daughter's Death

Francisco Ortiz, a Worcester man, has been charged with the death of his 4-year-old daughter and faces multiple charges including assault and battery. Ortiz claimed the child fell from a kitchen counter, but an autopsy revealed a skull fracture consistent with a fall from two stories and other injuries. The incident has raised concerns of child abuse, with prosecutors noting the presence of additional children in the home, one of whom tested positive for fentanyl, and another with a skull fracture. The children are now in state custody, and Ortiz has been ordered held without bail following a dangerousness hearing. Neighbors and prosecutors have highlighted Ortiz's history of violence and gang involvement, which, along with the severity of the charges, influenced the decision to detain him. Ortiz is due back in court in November as the investigation continues.