Lakewood, NJ – A New Jersey couple, Ruben Santiago, 36, and Caitlin M. Gibson, 28, has been formally indicted for murder in connection with the tragic death of their 3-month-old daughter, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.
The indictment, issued on September 10, follows months of investigation after the infant’s death in early May 2024.
Emergency Call Leads to Heartbreaking Outcome
The case began on May 5, when Santiago and Gibson called 911, reporting that their infant was struggling to breathe. Emergency responders arrived at the couple’s home in Lakewood Township and immediately began life-saving efforts. The child was rushed to a hospital, but sadly died the following day on May 6.
Autopsy Reveals Blunt Force Trauma
A post-mortem examination conducted on May 7 revealed that the baby had suffered blunt force trauma to the head, leading to fractures and a subdural hematoma—bleeding around the brain. The Ocean County Medical Examiner ruled the infant’s death a homicide.
Based on the autopsy results and further investigation, Santiago and Gibson were taken into custody by Lakewood Police the same day.
From Arrest to Indictment
While both suspects were initially charged with murder in May, this new indictment by a grand jury means the case will now officially proceed to criminal trial. Both have been held without bond at the Ocean County Jail since their arrest.
At this time, it is unclear if the couple has retained legal counsel, and court dates have not yet been scheduled, according to public records.
A Community in Shock
The case has left many in the Ocean County community heartbroken and outraged. The death of a child under such violent circumstances has drawn attention to the issue of child abuse and family violence, and law enforcement officials have reiterated the importance of reporting suspected abuse early.
If You Suspect Child Abuse
If you believe a child may be in danger, report it immediately to your local child protective services or call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453). Support is available 24/7, and all calls are confidential.
Case Overview
| Names | Ruben Santiago (36), Caitlin Gibson (28) |
|---|---|
| Location | Lakewood Township, Ocean County, NJ |
| Victim | 3-month-old daughter (name not released) |
| Incident Date | May 5–6, 2024 |
| Cause of Death | Blunt force trauma to the head; subdural hematoma |
| Manner of Death | Homicide |
| Charges | Murder (indicted), pending trial |
| Custody Status | Held without bond since May |
| Court Dates | Not yet scheduled |
