SAN JOSE, Calif. - In a troubling development, a 40-year-old man is facing suspicion of fatally poisoning his elderly mother with fentanyl earlier this year, according to a statement released by San Jose police on Thursday.
The investigation into this tragic incident began when the lifeless body of the elderly woman was discovered at her residence in the 1100 block of Utopia Place on June 6, around 1:20 p.m. The San Jose Police Department has diligently probed the case since that fateful day.
After exhaustive examination, the case was handed over to the Santa Clara County Coroner's Office. Their findings, disclosed on July 18, unequivocally determined that the woman's death was not a natural one but rather a homicide. The cause of death was established as intentional poisoning with the potent synthetic opioid, fentanyl.
Detectives leading the investigation cast their suspicions on Bradley Dexter, the son of the deceased woman. Additionally, authorities were investigating Dexter in connection with a violent attack on his father, who had suffered severe injuries and required hospitalization.
In a significant development on Monday, law enforcement officers successfully located and apprehended Bradley Dexter in San Jose. He was promptly arrested and subsequently booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail. Dexter faces a slew of charges, including suspicion of homicide, poisoning, two counts of elder abuse, and an outstanding arrest warrant.
This unfortunate incident marks the 28th homicide in San Jose for the year 2023, underscoring the concerning trend of violent crimes in the city.
The San Jose Police Department is urging anyone with information regarding this case to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Detective Sgt. Barragan (#4106) and Detective Van Brande (#4542) of the Homicide Unit can be contacted via email at 4106@sanjoseca.gov and 4542@sanjoseca.gov, respectively. Alternatively, individuals can reach out by calling (408) 277-5283. Your cooperation may be crucial in unraveling the full details of this tragic incident.