DeLand, Florida — A Florida woman is facing criminal charges after authorities say her 3-year-old child was left unattended in a vehicle for approximately two hours and was later found unresponsive in a medical emergency that required lifesaving intervention.
The incident unfolded in DeLand and has sparked renewed concerns about the dangers of leaving children inside parked vehicles, even during moderate temperatures.
Child Found Unresponsive in Vehicle
According to the DeLand Police Department, officers responded to the 300 block of East New York Avenue around 4:30 p.m. after reports of a child suffering a medical emergency.
Investigators allege that 27-year-old Latana Williams left her 3-year-old daughter alone in a vehicle while she donated plasma nearby.
Police said the child remained inside the vehicle for approximately two hours while outdoor temperatures were around 84 degrees.
Authorities reported that when Williams returned to her vehicle, she discovered the child was unresponsive.
Police say the toddler later displayed symptoms consistent with heat exhaustion.
Bystanders Witness Dramatic Rescue Effort
The frightening moments that followed were witnessed by several people nearby.
Marc Tait, who was sitting in his vehicle at the plaza, noticed a woman carrying an unresponsive child and immediately realized something was wrong.
“I thought I was watching the baby die, I really did,” Tait said.
Tait called 911, and emergency recordings reportedly captured what sounded like the child’s mother screaming in the background while waiting for help to arrive.
As panic unfolded at the scene, another bystander stepped in to assist.
CPR Performed Before First Responders Arrived
According to reports, Rosemary Roile rushed over and began performing CPR on the child before emergency crews reached the scene. Her quick actions may have helped save the little girl’s life.
“She finally started breathing, but it was very wet,” Roile said.
The emotional rescue left a lasting impact on those involved.
“When the little girl regained consciousness,” Roile said, “I started to cry because I didn’t think I was going to be able to get her back.”
The dramatic moments highlighted how quickly heat-related emergencies involving children can become life-threatening.
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Child Hospitalized in Critical Condition
The DeLand Fire Department and Volusia County Fire Rescue responded to the scene and provided emergency medical care.
The child was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition, according to police.
Officials later provided a positive update, stating that the child is expected to recover. However, authorities declined to release additional details about her current medical condition.
Woman Arrested on Child Neglect Charge
Following an investigation, Williams was arrested and charged with child neglect. According to police, she has denied any wrongdoing related to the incident.
Authorities used the case to remind parents and caregivers about the dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles.
“Please take this as a reminder to always check your back seats,” said Capt. Prurince Dice of the DeLand Police Department. “Give yourself enough time when you’re traveling so you’re not in a rush when you arrive at your destination.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the DeLand Police Department.
What are your thoughts on this case and the dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles? Share your opinion respectfully in the comments below.
