One of two Green Bay men suspected of being connected to the suspicious death of a two-year-old Green Bay boy has been charged, following his arrest in Florence County on June 27, 2025.
The Brown County District Attorney’s Office charged the following suspect on July 16, 2025:
James Vanderleest, 21, Green Bay:
- First-Degree Reckless Homicide
- Obstructing an Officer
- Bail Jumping – Six Counts
The second Green Bay man arrested as a suspect in the case has not yet been officially charged; however, he remains in custody at the Brown County Jail.
In speaking with the next-of-kin, the Green Bay Police Department (GBPD) is able to identify the victim as Leo Escalante. He was transported to a local hospital on Sunday, June 22, 2025, from a residence in the 100 block of Alpine Drive with life-threatening injuries. Leo was later transferred to another facility outside the area for further treatment but succumbed to his injuries on June 23, 2025, and was pronounced deceased.
The case remains an active investigation. No additional details will be released at this time.
Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to call Green Bay Police at (920) 448-3200 and reference case #25-229554. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at
(920) 432-STOP (7867). You may also submit a tip online at
www.432stop.com, or utilize the "P3 Tips" app.
