Connecticut mother allegedly strangled children to death before hanging herself

DANBURY, Conn. (TCD) -- A 36-year-old mother allegedly fatally strangled her three children before hanging herself.

According to a news release posted on July 28 from the Danbury Police Department, the bodies of Sonia Loja and her three children, 12-year-old Junior Panjon, 10-year-old Joselyn Panjon, and 5-year-old Jonael Panjon, were discovered at their home on Whaley Street. Loja’s body was found in a shed in the backyard, WFSB-TV reports.

The three children reportedly died by strangulation, and the mother’s suspected cause of death is asphyxia by hanging.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Farmington, Connecticut, was scheduled to perform an autopsy on Thursday, July 28, according to police.

Loja and her three children allegedly lived together in the home with two other adults, who were not at the scene when police entered the residence.

Danbury Mayor Dean Esposito said in a statement, "A truly horrible event occurred in our city yesterday and we mourn the tragic loss of life. In the coming days, mental health and counseling services will be provided through collaboration with the Danbury Public Schools and the City of Danbury. Our community grieves for the innocent lives taken from us. We will get through this together."

Loja’s family told WFSB that Loja ran a home day care.

MORE:

• Update from the Danbury Police Department regarding 10 Whaley Street - Danbury Police Department
• Mother strangled 3 children, hanged herself, Danbury police say - WFSB