Two women and an infant were found fatally stabbed Thursday morning at a Modesto residence, and a suspect was later taken into custody after a large law enforcement response that prompted a nearby elementary school lockdown, authorities said.

Officers with the Modesto Police Department responded shortly after 9:20 a.m. to the 1600 block of Monterey Avenue following a report of a disturbance.

When officers arrived, they found a woman, about 23 years old, suffering from multiple stab wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

As officers searched the residence, they discovered a second woman, about 54 years old, and an infant child, both with apparent stab wounds. The 54-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The infant was taken to a local hospital, where the child later died, according to police.

Second Child Hospitalized

A second child, about 4 years old, was found inside the residence and transported to a local hospital for medical evaluation and clearance.

Investigators quickly established a perimeter after information gathered at the scene led them to believe the suspect remained in the area. The department’s Hostage Negotiation Team, SWAT team, and Investigations Division responded to assist.

As a precaution, Orville Wright Elementary School was placed on lockdown. Because authorities anticipated an extended law enforcement operation, Modesto City Schools relocated students and staff to La Loma Junior High School. Students and staff were transported safely, and reunification efforts were completed, police said.

The suspect, identified by police as Joaquin Escoto, 28, was later found hiding inside a nearby residence and was taken into custody without incident.

Investigators believe Escoto shared a child with one of the victims.

Detectives said preliminary findings indicate the stabbings were an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

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