A mother and school teacher killed her young son, strangling him to death
40-year-old Justine Mroz is accused of killing her 6-year-old son Elliot Perez on October 19, 2025 in Land O’ Lakes, Florida. Justine is a school teacher at Pasco County Schools. Elliot had autism.
Justine Mroz
Elliot was banging his head on the floor at home. Justine went over to stop him, Elliot began to hit and bite his mom.
Justine says she snapped and then began to strangle Elliot to the point of death. Elliot died on scene. Justine called 911 and told police that she just murdered her own son.
Justine professed suicidal ideations over the 911 call. Justine tried to slit her wrists during the 911 call. Deputies responded to her home and found Elliot dead and unresponsive inside.
He was airlifted to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead officially. Justine had self inflicted lacerations to her wrists.
Justine was taken into custody and charged with one count of second degree murder – dangerous and depraved without premeditation.
