PHOENIX (AP) – Police say the second of two boys who were severely beaten during an attack at a Phoenix park three days ago has now died.

Phoenix police Sgt. Tommy Thompson says 10-year-old Edwin Pellecier died Friday afternoon. His 7-year-old cousin, Jesse Ramirez, died of his injuries early Friday.

Police arrested 36-year-old Joe Sauceda Gallegos within hours of the attack. Gallegos made an initial court appearance Wednesday on two counts of child abuse and dangerous crimes against children.

Thompson says he will now face two first-degree murder charges as well.

Doctors believe the boys were bludgeoned repeatedly with a baseball bat or similar object. Police say they found a bat in Gallegos’ home.


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