Land O’ Lakes Shocked as Teacher Justine Mroz Confesses to Killing 6-Year-Old Son

Land O’ Lakes Shocked as Teacher Justine Mroz Confesses to Killing 6-Year-Old Son

Land O’ Lakes, FL – October 20, 2025 — The Land O’ Lakes community is reeling from a shocking and heartbreaking tragedy after authorities confirmed the death of a 6-year-old child at the hands of his mother, 40-year-old Justine Mroz. The incident, which has left neighbors, educators, and families across the region stunned, occurred when Mroz reportedly confessed to authorities via a 911 call that she had choked her young autistic son.

According to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, emergency responders were dispatched to the family’s residence following Mroz’s distressing 911 call. Upon arrival, deputies found the child unresponsive. Despite immediate attempts to resuscitate him, the boy was pronounced dead at the scene. Mroz was taken into custody without incident and is facing charges of first-degree murder. Investigators are currently examining the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.

Friends, neighbors, and colleagues describe Justine Mroz as a devoted teacher and a mother who, prior to this tragedy, was known for her involvement in the community and her commitment to her students. “It’s impossible to reconcile what happened with the person we thought we knew,” said a colleague at a local elementary school. “This is a deeply tragic situation, and our hearts go out to the child and the family involved.”

The child, described by neighbors and relatives as bright, loving, and affectionate, had autism and required specialized care and attention. Family and community members expressed shock and profound grief at the loss of such a young life. “He was full of laughter and curiosity,” said a family friend. “He deserved love, support, and every chance at a happy life. This is unbearable for all of us.”

Mental health professionals and child advocacy organizations emphasize the importance of early intervention, support, and resources for parents raising children with special needs. They note that tragedies like this underscore the challenges some families face and the critical need for accessible mental health services and support networks.

Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco released a statement expressing sorrow over the incident, urging the community to support one another in this time of mourning while respecting the ongoing investigation. “The loss of a child in such circumstances is profoundly tragic,” the statement read. “We are committed to thoroughly investigating this case to understand the events that led to this tragedy and to ensure justice is served.”

Community members are organizing vigils and memorials to honor the young boy’s memory and to provide support to grieving neighbors. Educators, friends, and families in the area are also working to raise awareness about the importance of mental health resources, parental support systems, and early intervention for families facing extraordinary challenges.

The tragic death of this 6-year-old child serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, the importance of community and mental health support, and the profound impact such incidents have on families, neighborhoods, and schools. As Land O’ Lakes mourns, residents hope to honor the child’s memory through increased awareness, compassion, and efforts to prevent similar tragedies in the future.