Credit: Oklahoma County Detention Center
Flor Esthela Ontiveros, a 34-year-old from Oklahoma, faces serious charges of child abuse after a harrowing incident at the Will Rogers Aquatic Center in Oklahoma City on June 27. Ontiveros has been charged with two counts of child abuse following allegations that she attempted to drown her young daughter and nephew.
The disturbing event unfolded when a lifeguard discovered the two children unresponsive in the pool. Thanks to the quick actions of the lifeguard, both children were revived and rushed to a nearby hospital, where they received medical treatment. Fortunately, they are expected to make a full recovery, told The US Sun.
Witnesses reported alarming details about the incident. According to a probable cause affidavit, Ontiveros was observed smiling while she held the children underwater. One witness described seeing Ontiveros completely submerge her nephew’s body and head beneath the water, despite onlookers shouting at her to stop.
Additionally, Ontiveros’ 4-year-old daughter later told detectives that her mother had held her head underwater and tried to force her to swallow water. During her interview with detectives, Ontiveros remained calm and even smiled while discussing the incident.
Although she denied intentionally trying to drown the children, she acknowledged that it was something she “could have done” when questioned later. Ontiveros was arrested on August 21, and formal charges were filed on August 30. She is currently being held at the Oklahoma County Detention Center with a bond set at $250,000.
The lifeguards involved were praised for their swift and life-saving response, which played a crucial role in preventing a tragedy.
