HOUSTON, TX – A 4-year-old girl tragically died in Houston after she was left alone in a vehicle. The Houston Police Department (HPD) reported that they were called to the scene in the block of 6500 Hollister Rd. near Wilshire Pl. Dr. at about 6:30 p.m. due to reports of a heat-related illness involving a child.
Upon arrival, police officers and the Houston Fire Department found the young girl in a pickup truck. Despite rushing her to the hospital, the child succumbed to the heat.
HPD Lt. Larry Crowson stated that initially, two women and three children were in the pickup truck. The group had left the vehicle to enter an apartment, allegedly leaving the 4-year-old behind in the process. The child was discovered in the truck after her absence was noticed.
Authorities are currently seeking surveillance video of the incident to further the investigation. Following its completion, the Harris County District Attorney’s Office will determine whether there will be charges filed.
In light of the tragic incident, Lt. Crowson emphasized the importance of maintaining awareness of children’s whereabouts, particularly in extreme weather conditions. He noted that in the current weather, it only takes a few minutes for heat-related illnesses to occur.