Hillsborough, New Jersey — A 35-year-old Indian-origin mother has been arrested and charged with murdering her two young sons in a shocking case that has devastated the community. Priyatharsini Natarajan of Hillsborough was arrested on January 13 after her two children, aged 5 and 7, were found dead inside their home.
The tragic incident unfolded when the boys' father returned from work and discovered his sons unconscious in their bedroom.
Key Facts
- Incident occurred on January 13, 2026 at approximately 6:45 p.m. ET in Hillsborough, New Jersey
- The 35-year-old mother faces two counts of first-degree murder and one count of third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose
- Both victims were students at Sunnymead Elementary School in Hillsborough
The father made an emergency 911 call after finding his two boys unconscious, telling dispatchers that his wife had done something to them. Emergency responders and police officers arrived at the residence and immediately attempted life-saving measures, but it was too late.
Both children were pronounced dead at the scene.
According to a probable cause affidavit, the children's father told investigators that his wife confessed to killing their children. Detectives executed a search warrant at the home and discovered a handwritten note addressed to the husband.
The exact cause of death has not yet been officially confirmed, as postmortem examinations are pending.
Natarajan was arrested by Hillsborough Police Officers and transported to Somerset County Jail pending a detention hearing. The investigation involves multiple agencies including the Hillsborough Township Police Department, Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Northern Regional Medical Examiner's Office.
The local school community has been deeply affected by this tragedy. Mike Volpe, superintendent of Hillsborough Public Schools, released a statement expressing shock at the deaths, calling them "unfathomable."
The district immediately mobilized crisis response teams and counseling services to support grieving students and staff.
Neighbors described the family as normal and quiet, with many noting that the children attended school with their own kids. The community has been left grappling with the incomprehensible nature of the tragedy.
Authorities have not yet released a motive for the deaths, and investigations continue.
The superintendent emphasized the importance of open communication with children about the incident while limiting their exposure to distressing rumors on social media. As the investigation proceeds, the full cause and manner of death will be determined through official medical examiner reports.
This tragedy underscores the critical importance of mental health awareness and community vigilance. As investigations continue and more details emerge, the legal process will unfold in the coming weeks.
The community remains in mourning as they process this heartbreaking loss and support affected families.
Do You Know?
According to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, school-based crises like this require immediate, coordinated mental health response to help students and staff process trauma and prevent secondary psychological effects.
Key Terms
- First-degree murder: The most serious murder charge, involving intentional killing with premeditation and deliberation
- Probable cause affidavit: A legal document submitted by law enforcement detailing evidence suggesting a crime was committed and identifying the suspect
- Postmortem examination: Also called autopsy, a medical procedure to determine cause of death and gather evidence
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