Father Accused of Murder After 9-Year-Old Son Found Dead in Car Set Ablaze Outside New Jersey School

A father in New Jersey has been arrested after authorities say his 9-year-old son was found dead inside a burning car.

Around 10:45 p.m. on March 28, police received a 911 call regarding a fire in the area of Sayreville High School, according to the Sayreville Police Department.

While responding to that call, another 911 call came in from a woman who said she got into a dispute with her husband, 43-year-old Manuel Rivera, and he left with their 9-year-old son. Police determined the two calls were related.

Police found Rivera alive with burns to his body and a self-inflicted wound near the rear of Sayreville High School, officials said.

Next to Rivera was a vehicle doused with gasoline and on fire, authorities said, adding the boy was found dead inside the vehicle.

According to prosecutors, Rivera was transported to the hospital to be treated for his injuries. The boy was identified as Christian Rivera, MyCentralJersey.com reported.

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An autopsy was completed on the victim and Rivera was charged with murder, aggravated arson, endangering the welfare of a child and desecration of human remains, according to authorities.

The investigation is ongoing.