Mother of New Orleans boy killed by alligator pushing for DCFS records to stay confidential
By Aubry Killion
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NEW ORLEANS (WDSU) — New court records have revealed graphic abuse allegations in the case of a 12-year-old boy who was killed by an alligator in New Orleans East last year.
Hilda Vasquez, the mother of Bryan Vasquez, had a recent court hearing where her attorney pushed for the Department of Children and Family Services records tied to Bryan not to be released in court.
Her attorney stressed that the records should remain confidential, records show.
“While there are limited exceptions to the confidentiality of DCFS records, none of them apply here,” her attorney argued.
Court records claim the case is “bound by limits of confidentiality.”
The district attorney’s office pushed back, records stating that the abuse that was under investigation by DCFS is directly connected to the case.
WDSU Investigates has also been requesting these same records for months as part of its ongoing investigation into the state of DCFS.
Prosecutors outlined disturbing details of abuse from 2019 to 2025, leading up to Bryan’s death.
These allegations include scratches, bruising, the child expelling tapeworms from his anus on two separate occasions at school without proof of treatment, a severe burn on his thigh, being sent to school in urine-soaked clothing, an untreated staph infection from a wound on his back, feces under his fingernails, and not being given prescribed medicine at home, which reportedly led to increased behavioral problems.
WDSU Investigates asked DCFS Secretary Rebecca Harris about changes being made since Bryan’s death.
When questioned about how the department ensures children are not falling through the cracks, Harris said, “That workers are going into the homes?” before redirecting to another meeting.
An employee with Harris said they are.
Hilda Vasquez’s attorney has not responded to requests for comment.
District Attorney Jason Williams issued the following statement:
“I am currently trying a murder case in Section D of Criminal District Court, but I needed to step away and respond to your inquiry because Bryan’s death remains especially heartbreaking. He was a very young and vulnerable child who lacked even the ability to speak up for or protect himself.
“Our Special Victims Unit is fully committed to seeking justice for Bryan and will pursue this case through to its conclusion. Cases involving the abuse and neglect of children inside their own homes must become a greater priority in this state. Meaningful early intervention and stronger systemic safeguards are critical if we are serious about preventing these tragedies and protecting children’s lives.”
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