Mother Arrested in Connection With Death of 5-Year-Old; Second Suspect in Brawley Homicide Case

BRAWLEY, Calif. — The Brawley Police Department has arrested the mother of a 5-year-old child in connection with a homicide investigation that began last month.

According to a press release, investigators determined that Leia Lentz was allegedly connected to the January 8, 2026 death of her son following continued follow-up investigation. After reviewing evidence gathered in the case, detectives established probable cause to arrest Lentz on charges related to murder. She was taken into custody on February 11 at approximately 3:55 p.m., police said.

Family members have also spoken publicly about alleged prior concerns. According to the child’s aunt, Alma Sanchez, the child identified as 5-year-old Joseph Anthony Gonzalez Jr had previously shown signs of alleged abuse and was, at times, under the care of other family members. Sanchez stated the child had been taken to a hospital in the past due to bruising, which she said prompted an investigation by authorities at that time. These claims have not been independently confirmed by law enforcement.

Sanchez also provided an image which appeared to show bruising on the child’s face and neck. Due to privacy considerations and out of respect for the family, the image will not be published.

The case began on January 8 at approximately 7:33 p.m., when officers responded to a medical call in the 350 block of South 18th Street regarding an unresponsive 5-year-old child. Officers initiated life-saving measures before the child was transported to Pioneers Memorial Hospital, where the child was later pronounced deceased.

An autopsy determined the cause of death to be homicide, according to police.

Following the initial investigation and autopsy findings, Isaac Elizondo, identified by authorities as the mother’s live-in boyfriend, was previously arrested on suspicion of murder.

Officials stated that cases of this nature are complex and require extensive investigation. The department extended condolences to the child’s family and said the investigation remains active and ongoing. No additional details are being released at this time to protect the integrity of the case.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Brawley Police Department at 760-344-2111.