A Flagstaff mother has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder, child abuse and concealment of a dead body after police discovered the body of her 17-month-old son inside a hotel room, where authorities allege the child had been kept in a freezer for weeks following his death.
Flagstaff police responded to the La Quinta Inn and Suites at 1000 N. Bronco Way shortly after 9:30 a.m. on May 17. Officers found the toddler deceased in one of the rooms. Two other children, ages 7 and 9, were also present but unharmed and were taken into protective custody. Police said no other suspects are being sought in the case.
Flagstaff Mother Arrested After Toddler Found Dead, Body Allegedly Stored in Freezer for Weeks
According to arrest documents, the mother, identified as 31-year-old Ochra Manakaja, admitted to killing her son and storing his body in a freezer for an extended period. The discovery prompted an immediate investigation by Flagstaff police, who have not yet released the cause or manner of death pending further autopsy results.
The Arizona Department of Child Safety confirmed it had prior contact with the family before the incident. Details of those interactions remain limited, but the agency is now working closely with law enforcement to review the case history.
Manakaja was booked into the Coconino County Jail on Monday. Court records show she faces multiple felony counts, and prosecutors are expected to present evidence of the alleged concealment during upcoming hearings. Neighbors and hotel staff have described the situation as deeply troubling, noting the family had been staying at the property for several days prior to the discovery.
The incident has renewed scrutiny over child welfare services in northern Arizona. DCS officials stated they are conducting a thorough review of all prior reports involving the family. Police continue to ask anyone with additional information to contact Flagstaff Police at 928-774-1414 or Silent Witness at 928-774-6111. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the toddler’s death.