North Carolina authorities are investigating a tragic accidental death of a toddler who was left unattended in a parked car outside one of his parents’ workplace earlier this week.
A concerned witness called Gaston County Police after spotting the unresponsive child inside a vehicle at 4:11 p.m. outside the Industrial Fabricators Inc.
“The reporting person advised that the toddler had been inside the vehicle for an extended period,” the police statement read.
“Upon arrival, Officers performed life-saving measures but were unsuccessful. The child was pronounced deceased on scene by Gaston County Medical Personnel.”
Gaston County Police Capt. Billy Downey confirmed Friday that the tot’s death appears to be “a tragic accident” so far but the investigation into the circumstances continues.
“At this point, it looks like it is an accident, but unfortunately because of the situation and the circumstances we have to look into it,” Downey told reporters.
“One thing I would caution people – especially parents of small children – if you have a routine stick with that routine. If something changes your routine, make sure that you check everything. We all get in a hurry. We all make mistakes. Things happen. But just always double-check and make sure you’re not leaving a child in the car.”
