New Jersey mother accused of drowning her toddlers in the bath

Naomi Elkins (Photo: Ocean County Jail)[Missing Credit]

Officers arrived to find emergency responders from volunteer Jewish ambulance programme Hatzolah Medical Services giving lifesaving aid, but both children were pronounced dead at the scene.

Charged with two counts of murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and unlawful possession of a weapon, Elkins is said to have been taken into custody “without incident”. She appeared before Judge Scott Basen who set a date of 1 July for her first court appearance. Elkins said few words in response to the judge, and answered “yeah” to his question of whether she understood the charges against her.

One unnamed woman told CBS News: “Everyone is visibly shaken. I just don't understand how somebody could do this to a one and three-year-old. This is a very united community. I can't imagine how the neighbours are feeling and how other people are doing.”

Locals said that Elkins’ husband was out of town when the tragedy took place.

A children’s tricycle and swing set were seen in the yard outside the house where the toddlers were found. According to records, Elkins has a masters degree.