Mother charged after 2 young children found dead in burning vehicle, police say

SAN ANTONIO (KSAT) — Fire crews in San Antonio made a harrowing discovery early Friday morning.

Just before 5 a.m., they found two children dead inside a burned vehicle in a warehouse parking lot.

Authorities believe the children were 7 and 5 years old, but their identities are pending positive identification from the medical examiner.

Police detained Marlene Vidal, 34, at the scene for questioning. She was identified as the children’s mother.

San Antonio police said Vidal was arrested and charged with capital murder.

While investigators are working out fine details, San Antonio Police Assistant Chief Jesse Salame said, “Mental health issues may have played a role.”