A 3-year-old Alabama boy died on Sunday after he was reportedly found in a hot car outside his family’s home. Johnathan was rushed to hospital after being found unresponsive. He was later pronounced dead at Regional Medical Center.
“We obviously can confirm there was an incident involving a small child, but it appears to be a tragic accident,” Sheriff’s Deputy Whaley said on Thursday. “We’re in the early stages of the investigation.”
No charges have been filed in the death of the toddler.
Officials are investigating how long he was in the vehicle and have released no further details.
“It is still under investigation,” Whaley said. “We’re hoping that once the investigation has concluded that we’ll be able to provide more information.”
A GoFundMe has been set up to help his parents and older sister navigate such a horrific time. As of Friday it had surpassed its goal of $5,000.
Fundraiser organizer Ciera Myrick described LJ as a “sweet little boy,” adding: “We appreciate any and all prayers at this time and the days coming.”
A temperature of 91 degrees Fahrenheit was recorded on Sunday in Birmingham, which is about 50 miles south of Holly Pond, according to National Weather Service data.
The incident marked the first “vehicular heat stroke death” of a child in Alabama this year. Johnathan is the 17th child to die in a hot car this year in the U.S.
Image Source – GoFundMe Page
