On June 6, 2024, the Evansville Police Department (EPD) responded to a call regarding a repossessed vehicle with an infant inside. The vehicle had been towed from an apartment complex on the city's northeast side.
Upon arrival, EPD officers approached the vehicle and noticed a young child in the back seat. The child was unresponsive and appeared to be in distress. Officers immediately removed the child from the vehicle and performed CPR.
Emergency medical services (EMS) arrived on the scene and transported the infant to a local hospital. The child was later pronounced dead.
The EPD is currently investigating the incident and has not yet determined how the child ended up in the repossessed vehicle. The child's parents have been notified and are cooperating with the investigation.
The EPD has released a statement expressing their condolences to the child's family and emphasizing the importance of always placing children in safe and secure environments.
Background on Child Endangerment and Vehicle Repossession
Child endangerment is a serious crime that can result in severe consequences. In Indiana, it is illegal to leave a child unattended in a vehicle for any period of time. This law is in place to protect children from harm and ensure their well-being.
Vehicle repossession is a legal process that allows lenders to seize a vehicle when the borrower fails to make their loan payments. Lenders are required to follow certain procedures when repossessing a vehicle, including giving the borrower notice and an opportunity to redeem the vehicle.
Preventing Child Endangerment During Vehicle Repossession
To prevent child endangerment during vehicle repossession, lenders and repossession companies should take the following steps:
- Verify that the vehicle is unoccupied before repossessing it. Lenders can use various methods to verify that the vehicle is unoccupied, such as looking inside the vehicle, knocking on the windows, and listening for any sounds.
- If a child is found in the vehicle, immediately call 911. Do not attempt to remove the child yourself.
- Cooperate with law enforcement and child protective services. Lenders and repossession companies should provide all necessary information to law enforcement and child protective services to help them investigate the incident and ensure the safety of the child.
Conclusion
The tragic death of the infant in Evansville is a reminder of the importance of protecting children from harm. Lenders and repossession companies must take all necessary precautions to prevent children from being left unattended in vehicles. Parents and caregivers must also be aware of the dangers of leaving children alone and should always take steps to ensure their safety.
