A Texas toddler was found safe early Monday morning after a harrowing ordeal. The child’s parents left him unattended in a running vehicle while they gambled inside a gas station. The incident occurred in Humble, Texas, northeast of Houston.
According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the 16-month-old was sleeping inside an unlocked Chrysler 300 outside a Shell Gas Mart around 11:30 p.m. Sunday. The parents, Kimberly Cook, 21, and Anthony Blue, 29, initially told deputies they had only run into the convenience store. However, further investigation revealed they had been gambling on 8 liner machines for approximately 30 minutes, periodically checking on the child, according to Fox 26.
As a result of their actions, Cook and Blue were charged with child abandonment. Deputies stated they left their toddler inside an unlocked, running car while they gambled inside the gas station.
Two suspects, Jabari Davis, 19, and Vincent Cannady, 18, allegedly took advantage of the situation and stole the vehicle while the parents were inside gambling. The suspects were later apprehended after a short pursuit.
A park ranger discovered the child abandoned and unharmed in Houston’s MacGregor Park, about 20 miles away from the gas station. Sgt. Ben Beall told KHOU-TV that the ranger initially mistook the child for a small animal. The child was wearing a onesie and was shivering from the cold.
Officer Kerry Clopton with the Houston Police Department noted the potential for a tragic outcome, given the chilly weather and presence of wild animals in the area.
The child was taken to a hospital for observation and subsequently placed in the care of his grandparents. Deputies spotted the stolen Chrysler 300 shortly after finding the child. A short chase ensued after the driver sped away. Davis and Cannady were arrested without incident.
The two suspects were charged with auto theft and kidnapping. Cannady’s bond was set at $75,000, and Davis’ bond was set at $40,000, according to Fox 26. Cook and Blue face child abandonment charges, with their bond set at $10,000 each.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of leaving children unattended, particularly in vulnerable situations. The quick actions of law enforcement and the park ranger ensured the child’s safety and well-being.
Leaving a vehicle running and unattended can lead to auto theft and put children at risk. Parents should always ensure their children’s safety and avoid leaving them unattended in vehicles, regardless of the perceived convenience or short duration of the absence. The consequences can be devastating, as demonstrated by this incident.
Child endangerment is a serious offense, and parents have a legal and moral obligation to protect their children from harm.