Lake Wales police tell 10 News just after 8 a.m. Maisa Alvarez chained her son's hands together. When he woke up, officers say she stabbed him eight to 10 times in the chest.
The boy was airlifted to an Orlando hospital and police say he has non-life threatening injuries.
"It's not supposed to happen," said next door neighbor Owen Campbell.
Campbell says the family next door would leave their phone number when they returned home to Brazil, in case of emergency. He described them as a quiet, church-going family.
"You never know what's going on in people's lives, but it's sad," Campbell said, fighting back tears.
Police describe the crime scene as "horrific."
Officers say Alvarez didn't offer any explanation or motive. Police tell 10 News Alvarez has no criminal history and they've never been called to their house before.
"It's very unusual. It's very scary to think that it could go from nothing to that," said Lake Wales Police Deputy Chief Troy Schulze.
Neighbors were also at a loss.
"It's got to be somebody crazy," said Ileana Rodriguez, "my heart goes out to that little boy."
Police say Alvarez called 911 after stabbing her son. At the scene, officers say she talked with them at length, with her demeanor remaining calm and emotionless throughout.
Alvarez is facing charges of attempted first degree murder and aggravated child abuse.
Written by Adam Freeman
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