Texas Father Charged After Daughter Gives Birth to Stillborn

A father from Texas has been charged with sexual assault after his teenage daughter allegedly gave birth to a stillborn baby in a Walmart bathroom. The incident, which has drawn significant attention, raises serious questions about parental responsibility and the protection of minors.

According to local law enforcement, Jerry Lee Martinez, 45, is accused of impregnating his 17-year-old daughter. Following the revelation of her pregnancy, he reportedly drove her to Mexico in an attempt to facilitate an abortion. However, the situation took a tragic turn when the girl gave birth to a stillborn infant in the bathroom of a Walmart in Kingsville, Texas, on the night of October 14, 2023.

Martinez now faces charges of sexual assault against a child, along with a history of prior charges that include abandoning or endangering a child with criminal negligence, as well as tampering with a witness and physical evidence. Jail records indicate that he is currently held at the Kleberg County Jail on a bond of $600,000.

The allegations against Martinez emerged from an arrest affidavit obtained by the local ABC affiliate, KIII. The document states that his daughter reported that he began “touching her inappropriately” when she was just 15 years old. Over the next two years, she alleged that he assaulted her multiple times, resulting in her pregnancy. Reports indicate that upon learning of the pregnancy, Martinez physically assaulted her, striking her in the stomach several times.

After the stillbirth, the girl reportedly disposed of the infant in the trash before leaving the restroom. Walmart employees discovered the baby and immediately notified the authorities. Emergency responders arrived to render aid, but the infant was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

CCTV footage from the Walmart facility revealed the girl entering the bathroom and remaining inside for approximately 40 minutes before exiting. Authorities stated that Martinez and his daughter were located in their vehicle about 30 minutes after the baby was discovered.

In a separate but related case, Mario Duran, 60, who is identified as Martinez’s stepfather, is also facing charges of sexual assault. The investigation highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety and welfare of minors in the household.

Law enforcement officials issued a statement expressing their condolences to all affected by this tragic event. They emphasized the need for vigilance in cases involving minors and the importance of reporting suspicious behavior to authorities.

As this case progresses through the legal system, it underscores the critical need for protective measures for vulnerable individuals and the serious implications of familial abuse.