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CPS Ignored Warnings Before Children's Tragic Deaths
5 Sep
Summary
- Child protection officials investigated multiple reports of the mother's behavior.
- Officials determined neglectful supervision but did not remove children.
- Concerns included the mother believing a child was possessed.
Child protection officials investigated several reports concerning Marlene Vidal's behavior in the years and days leading up to the deaths of her two young children. In June 2025, Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) received reports detailing Vidal's erratic actions, including beliefs that her child was possessed and fears of poisoning. Despite a "psychotic break" in June 2025, which led to her hospitalization and temporary placement of the children with a relative, CPS safety assessments determined the children were safe upon their return to Vidal's custody.
CPS determined Vidal engaged in neglectful supervision, partly due to admitting to marijuana use while caring for the children. However, the agency did not confirm physical neglect. Texas law allows for emergency removal of a child if there's immediate danger, but CPS assessments in June 2025 classified the family as moderate risk. Days before the tragedy on May 15, 2026, a welfare check was requested after Vidal left her aunt's home with the children, reportedly screaming about possession and threats. Edinburg police spoke with Vidal but found no legal basis for arrest or detention. A former CPS investigator expressed concern that opportunities to intervene may have been missed.
