Convicted Killer of 4-Year-Old Son Found Dead in NY Prison

Manuela Morgado, serving 20 years to life for murdering her son during a custody battle, died in her cell at Bedford Hills Correctional Facility.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Manuela Morgado, a 60-year-old woman convicted of smothering her 4-year-old son Jason 'Jake' Reish to death during a bitter custody battle in 2012, was found dead in her cell at the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility in Westchester, New York. The cause and details of Morgado's death have not been released by state officials.

Why it matters

This tragic case highlights the devastating consequences that can occur when mental health issues and custody disputes spiral out of control. Morgado's murder of her young son shocked the community and raised questions about the state's ability to identify and address the needs of parents experiencing severe emotional distress.

The details

In 2012, Morgado was engaged in a nasty legal fight for custody with the boy's father, prominent Manhattan surgeon Tim Reisch, when she suffocated Jake with a pillow in her Mamaroneck home. Morgado had given Jake pills but then resorted to smothering him, telling detectives 'Now no one will take him from me.' She had planned a murder-suicide but ultimately pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in 2014 and was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison.

  • On October 1, 2012, Morgado suffocated her 4-year-old son Jake Reish.
  • In 2014, Morgado pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison.
  • On March 5, 2026, Morgado was found dead in her cell at the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility.

The players

Manuela Morgado

A 60-year-old woman convicted of murdering her 4-year-old son Jason 'Jake' Reish during a bitter custody battle in 2012.

Tim Reisch

The father of Jason 'Jake' Reish and a prominent Manhattan surgeon who was engaged in a custody battle with Morgado.

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What they’re saying

“Our hearts remain with Jason Reish's family, who continue to grieve the loss of their beloved son. May his memory persist as a source of strength and comfort.”

— Susan Cacace, District Attorney

“Now no one will take him from me.”

— Manuela Morgado (lohud.com)

“Sick, twisted narcissistic monster.”

— Tim Reisch, Father of Jason 'Jake' Reish

What’s next

The cause and details of Morgado's death in prison are still under investigation by state officials.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the critical need for better mental health support and resources for parents experiencing severe emotional distress, especially during contentious custody battles. It serves as a somber reminder of the devastating consequences that can occur when these issues go unaddressed.