Phoenix Father Charged with First Degree Murder Following Homicide Ruling in Infant Son’s Death

Phoenix police arrested Domingo Herrera Espinoza for the murder of his infant son after a medical examiner ruled the 2025 death a homicide.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 7, 2026, 6:22 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from AZFamily

Background of the Investigation

A monthslong investigation into the death of an infant in Phoenix has culminated in the arrest of the child's father. On Friday night, the Phoenix Police Department announced that 26 year old Domingo Herrera Espinoza was booked into the Maricopa County jail. The case dates back to August 31, 2025, when officers responded to a call in the area of 20th Avenue and Chipman Road. Upon arrival, police found an infant in critical condition. The child was transported for medical care but passed away three days later, on September 3.

The Homicide Determination

At the time of the initial incident, homicide detectives interviewed family members, including Espinoza, who was reportedly the person watching the infant when the medical crisis occurred. While the investigation remained active for several months, a pivotal breakthrough occurred on February 25, 2026. On that date, the Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner officially ruled the infant’s death a homicide. This medical finding provided the necessary legal basis for detectives to proceed with criminal charges against the father.

Charges and Judicial Status

Espinoza was apprehended on Thursday and faces one count of first degree murder and one count of felony child abuse. According to jail records updated late Friday, he is currently being held on a $1 million bond. In addition to the murder and abuse charges, Espinoza was also booked on several unrelated probation violations. While the arrest has been confirmed, authorities have not yet released specific details regarding the exact nature of the injuries or the circumstances that led to the child's death.