On November 12, 2021, the Colorado Springs Police Department, Crimes Against Children Unit was notified of a deceased 15-month-old child, Cairo Jak Astacio. The investigation revealed that Cairo died of a fentanyl overdose while in his home. The infant’s parents, Joenny Astacio (Age 36) and Kira Villalba (Age 29) were both found to be under the influence of fentanyl at the time Cairo passed away. A search of the residence revealed drug paraphernalia and illegal narcotics. Detectives continued working this active investigation.
On June 10, 2022, Crimes Against Children Unit Detectives applied for and were granted arrest warrants for both Joenny Astacio and Kira Villalba for the charge of Child Abuse Knowingly/Recklessly Resulting in Death, a Class Two Felony. Both parents were subsequently taken into custody without incident.
Chief Adrian Vasquez shared “I am saddened by the tragic loss of one of the youngest members of our community to the fentanyl epidemic. The loss of Cairo Astacio is exactly why we continue to do our part in fighting this devastating drug, despite legislative efforts that reduce our ability to hold accountable those who possess and sell fentanyl within our community.”
Anyone with information or who is a witness to this investigation is asked to call the Colorado Springs Police Department at (719) 444-7000; or if you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (719) 634-STOP (7867) or 1-800-222-8477.