Mom Arrested After 3-Year-Old Girl Dies in Hot Car

A mother is facing serious charges in connection with the tragic death of her 3-year-old daughter, who died after being left in a hot car during an extreme heat wave in Southern California, according to authorities.

Emergency responders were called to the scene on Friday around 4:20 p.m. after a family member discovered the mother and daughter unconscious inside a parked Ford Expedition. It remains unclear how long they had been in the vehicle.

The little girl was rushed to a hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The preliminary investigation suggested that heat stroke may have been the cause of death, though an official autopsy report is still pending.

On that day, temperatures in Anaheim soared to a blistering 113 degrees. When first responders found them, conditions were already severe, with temperatures around 104 degrees, compounding the danger of being trapped inside a vehicle.

The mother, identified as Sandra Hernandez, 41, was treated at the hospital and was later taken into custody. She faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and felony child neglect.

During the investigation, law enforcement discovered several empty alcohol bottles inside the car, which could be a crucial element in the ongoing inquiry.

The investigation remains active, with authorities working to piece together the circumstances leading to this heartbreaking incident.

This tragic event underscores a persistent problem; as of this year, at least 31 children have lost their lives due to being left in hot cars in the U.S., according to the nonprofit organization KidsAndCars.org. The organization notes that since 1990, over 1,116 children have died in similar circumstances.

With temperatures rising, it is essential for families to stay aware of the dangers associated with leaving children unattended in vehicles. As we enter the hotter months, experts emphasize the need for vigilance to prevent such tragic accidents.

Each year, initiatives to raise awareness about the risks of hot cars continue, as it is crucial for parents and caregivers to understand the potential dangers. These campaigns aim to educate about safe practices and preventative measures that can safeguard children during extreme heat.

As this case unfolds, it serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities of young children and the importance of taking necessary precautions during hot weather conditions.

Source: ABC News