Police have confirmed that a five-year-old girl died after being left in a hot car for several hours in Garland, Texas, during a 37C (100F) heatwave.
Child left in car after school
It is believed the girl was left inside her family's car from the time she returned home from school until around 8:20pm on Tuesday, August 18. She was pronounced dead in hospital after police and fire services were called.
Police in Garland believe adults at the address on Redbird Drive did not realise the child was missing for several hours. When they found the girl unresponsive inside the car, they called emergency services at 8:20pm and began CPR, according to a police department statement.
Police investigation ongoing
A spokesperson said: “First responders quickly arrived and continued lifesaving measures that family members had already begun. The child was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.”
The spokesperson added: “Officers began investigating the circumstances leading up to the child being located and learned that an adult family member had returned home from school with the five-year-old female child and the child’s sibling. The five-year-old was left inside the vehicle.”
“After realising the five-year-old was missing, family members began searching for her and located her unresponsive inside the vehicle. Family members immediately began CPR and called 9-1-1 for assistance.”
Heatwave conditions
Temperatures reached 37C (100F) on Tuesday afternoon, according to meteorological data. An excess heat warning was in place for the northern part of the state at the time.
Officials warned Texans to limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, check on vulnerable neighbours, and stay hydrated. Forecasts suggest temperatures will remain above 36C for several days.
Detectives are continuing to investigate the child's death, but no arrests or charges have been made at this stage. The spokesperson continued: “The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death remains active. At this time, no charges have been filed as investigators continue working to determine the complete sequence of events leading up to this tragic incident.”
“As part of our standard procedures following a traumatic incident, community counseling services will be offered to the family.”
