Mother and Infant Found Dead in Apparent Murder-Suicide

Jennifer Paez, 35, and her 9-month-old son, Valentino Paez, were found dead in an apparent murder-suicide at their North Andover home on Monday. Authorities responded to a 911 call around 5:15 p.m. and discovered both with knife wounds; Jennifer was pronounced dead at the scene, and Valentino died at Lawrence General Hospital shortly after. Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker and North Andover Police Chief Charles Gray stated that initial evidence suggests Jennifer stabbed her son before taking her own life. The incident is being actively investigated, although it is considered isolated with no ongoing threat to the public. Tucker and Gray expressed their condolences to the victims' family and commended the responding officers and agencies for their efforts. Further details are awaited as the investigation continues.