Texas Mother Arrested for Scalding Two Children with Boiling Water
A shocking case of child abuse has emerged from San Antonio, Texas, where a 33-year-old woman stands accused of deliberately throwing boiling water on two young boys, causing severe burns across their bodies.
Stacy L. Gilbert was arrested on Tuesday, January 20, and charged with two counts of injury to a child. The charges include one count of recklessly causing bodily injury and another with intent to cause bodily injury, according to court records reviewed by Law&Crime.
San Antonio Police Department officers responded to a 911 emergency call at approximately 1:15 a.m. regarding an injured juvenile at a residence on Maverick Creek. Upon arrival, first responders discovered both a 2-year-old toddler and a 13-year-old teenager suffering from extensive burn wounds throughout their bodies.
Emergency medical services immediately transported both victims to a local hospital for treatment. The current condition of the children remains undisclosed by authorities.
Deliberate Act of Violence
Following a preliminary investigation, police determined that Gilbert allegedly threw the scalding water at the boys after becoming angry for reasons that remain unspecified. The incident occurred while both children were in their bedroom, with Gilbert entering from the kitchen carrying the boiling water.
The exact relationship between Gilbert and the two victims has not been disclosed by authorities.
Gilbert remains in custody at the Bexar County Adult Detention Center on a $30,000 bond as of Thursday, January 22. Should she be released, court orders prohibit her from possessing firearms. Her next court appearance is scheduled for a pre-indictment hearing on Monday, April 20.
Community Response and Legal Implications
Neighbors expressed both shock and, disturbingly, a lack of complete surprise at the arrest. "Your job is to care for these children, and that is treacherous to do something like that," one neighbor told KSAT.
Another resident called the act unimaginable, stating: "They're kids. There should be no reason."
Troublingly, a third neighbor revealed that police had been called to Gilbert's residence multiple times previously, including incidents where children were observed playing barefoot near broken glass.
Under Texas law, injury to a child with intent to cause bodily injury constitutes a serious felony, typically classified as a first-degree felony when victims suffer serious injuries. Conviction can result in up to ten years in prison plus substantial fines.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities indicating that Gilbert may face additional charges if further crimes are discovered. Neither Gilbert's plea status nor legal representation has been disclosed.
The San Antonio Police Department and Bexar County Adult Detention Center have not responded to requests for comment regarding the case.