Derek Rosa, a 15-year-old from Hialeah, Florida, faces trial as an adult for first-degree murder in the 2023 stabbing death of his mother, Irina Garcia. A judge recently ruled that jurors can view a video of Rosa’s confession, where the then-13-year-old described stabbing her over 40 times while she slept next to her newborn.
Crime Details
On October 12, 2023, Rosa allegedly used a kitchen knife to repeatedly stab Garcia in the neck, severing an artery and causing massive bleeding as she screamed. He then took photos of her body and himself—flashing a “hang loose” gesture with bloodied hands—and sent them to an online friend. The half-sister slept unharmed nearby, and Rosa calmly called 911, politely admitting the act and asking if sharing the photos was bad.
Court Ruling
Defense attorneys sought to suppress the confession video, citing Rosa’s youth, autism, ADHD diagnosis, and lack of criminal experience, arguing he couldn’t fully grasp his Miranda rights. Judge Richard Hersch denied the motion, finding Rosa knowingly and intelligently waived his rights, showed comprehension during questioning, and invoked counsel when unwilling to proceed. No coercion by detectives was evident, and Rosa’s intelligence was affirmed by his academic record as an honor roll student.
Background and Support
Described as a polite, straight-A eighth-grader with no prior issues or family conflicts, Rosa shocked authorities and loved ones. Some supporters, like Ariana Reyes, claim innocence, alleging manipulation by others based on 911 call background noises. The trial is set for late January 2026.
