A 27-year-old Lakewood mother, Naomi Elkins, has been charged with the murder of her two young children, ages 1 and 3, after a tragic incident on Tuesday afternoon.

Elkins faces two counts of murder, among other charges, following the deaths of her children, described by authorities as resulting from stab wounds and drowning. Police and emergency services responded to the Lakewood residence at 4:50 p.m., but despite efforts by Hatzolah Medical Services, both children were pronounced dead on the scene. Elkins was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at Ocean County Jail, with a heavy law enforcement presence continuing to investigate the incident.

The Lakewood Police Department responded to a distress call reporting two children in cardiac arrest at approximately 4:50 p.m. on Tuesday. Upon arrival at the local residence, authorities discovered a tragic scene where a 1-year-old and a 3-year-old were in critical condition.

Hatzolah Medical Services were already on the scene, administering lifesaving efforts to the children. Despite their urgent attempts, both children were sadly pronounced dead at the scene. The preliminary investigation revealed that the 1-year-old child had been stabbed, and both children had signs of drowning.

Naomi Elkins, the mother of the deceased children, was immediately taken into custody without resistance. Law enforcement officials have charged her with two counts of murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon.

The authorities maintained a significant presence at the Lakewood residence. Crime scene tape cordoned off the home, while investigators were seen entering and exiting the property. Community members observed as boxes and bags were methodically removed from the house and loaded into a Sheriff's Office vehicle, likely as part of the evidence collection process.

Naomi Elkins is currently being detained at Ocean County Jail, where she awaits her detention hearing. Elkins, who holds a Master’s degree and is married, now faces serious criminal charges with potentially far-reaching legal implications.

The neighborhood where the incident occurred is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with many homes housing young children. The local community is deeply shaken by the tragic events and the nature of the charges against Elkins.

Local residents have expressed their shock and grief at the loss of the two young lives. The tight-knit community, which typically sees low levels of violent crime, is struggling to come to terms with the incident. Neighbors have described a profound sense of loss and unease as they grapple with the reality of what has transpired.

As the investigation proceeds, law enforcement officials continue to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses to piece together the events that led to the deaths of the two children. The judicial process will determine the next steps for Elkins as she awaits her day in court.

In the meantime, support services and counseling are being offered to the community to help residents cope with the emotional aftermath of this tragedy. The local authorities have ensured residents that they are doing everything possible to provide support and maintain safety in the neighborhood.

This incident serves as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community vigilance. As Lakewood residents mourn the loss, the investigation continues to uncover the full details behind this heartbreaking case.