Dr. Hong-An Jan, a California doctor, is facing felony involuntary manslaughter charges and a civil lawsuit following the tragic death of a newborn, Charles Wang, after a circumcision procedure in February 2024.
The Circumcision Incident and Alleged Cause of Death
The infant, Charles Wang, was reportedly between two and three days old when he underwent the circumcision at Dr. Jan’s private clinic in Garden Grove, California. According to multiple reports, Dr. Jan allegedly administered a synthetic opioid, Demerol, to the newborn during the procedure instead of the required anesthetic, Xylocaine.
A toxicology report later revealed that Charles had high levels of Demerol in his system, a narcotic painkiller commonly used in adult patients.
Charles’ parents, Yiqi Wang and Hongyu Lu, noticed that their baby appeared lethargic and unresponsive after the procedure. Despite their concerns, Dr. Jan allegedly reassured them that these symptoms were “normal” and not a cause for alarm.
However, the following day, the infant was pronounced dead after his parents rushed him to the hospital. Medical professionals determined that acute Demerol intoxication led to bronchopneumonia, which ultimately caused the baby’s death.
Civil Lawsuit Filed by Charles’ Parents
In response to the devastating loss, Charles’ parents have filed a civil lawsuit against Dr. Hong-An Jan, accusing him of wrongful death, medical malpractice, and fraud. The lawsuit claims that Dr. Jan previously oversaw Hongyu Lu’s care during childbirth and later recommended that the newborn undergo circumcision the day after his birth.
According to the lawsuit, Dr. Jan reassured the parents that the symptoms Charles displayed post-circumcision were typical reactions, but he failed to take necessary actions, such as conducting blood tests or ordering lab work, despite recognizing signs of opioid intoxication.
Legal Proceedings and Medical License Suspension
Dr. Jan pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter during his court appearance on February 19, 2026, and is scheduled for a pre-trial hearing on May 1, 2026. In addition to the felony charge, a court order was issued on February 19, 2026, suspending Dr. Jan’s medical license while the case is pending.
What’s Next for Dr. Jan?
The case has garnered significant attention, raising questions about medical responsibility and the handling of newborn procedures. As legal proceedings unfold, Dr. Jan’s future in the medical field remains uncertain, with the possibility of further disciplinary actions depending on the outcome of the trial.
