On Saturday, Augst 15, 2026, just after 6:00 a.m., Sacramento Police Officers responded to reports of an unresponsive 11-month-old inside of an apartment in the 500 block Rivergate Way. The juvenile was transported to an area hospital. Despite lifesaving efforts, the child was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The child’s father, 27-year-old Emari Thompson of Sacramento, was detained by officers.

Due to the circumstances, Homicide Detectives and Crime Scene Investigators responded to take over the investigation. They processed the scene, collected evidence, and interviewed witnesses.

After careful review of this case and consultation with the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, Thompson was arrested and booked on one count of murder.

The Sacramento County Coroner’s Office will release the identity of the deceased after next-of-kin have been notified.  

The Sacramento Police Department encourages any witnesses with information regarding this investigation to contact the dispatch center at (916) 808-5471 or Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at (916) 443-HELP (4357). Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward up to $1,000.  Anonymous tips can also be submitted using the free “P3 Tips” smartphone app.