One-year-old boy dies after relative locked him inside hot pickup truck and 'forgot he was there'
A one-year-old boy was found dead inside a blisteringly hot pickup truck in southwest Albuquerque on Sunday evening.
Police have described the death as 'a very tragic incident' and one that occurred while the child was supposed to be under the supervision of a male relative who authorities say, simply forgot he was there.
'It's obviously a tragedy. But a one-year-old - it's really difficult to fathom,' said Albuquerque Police Department Public Information Officer Gilbert Gallegos
The child's parents dropped him off around 10:30am leaving him in the care of a young adult relative.
But what should have been a routine day turned to horror when that relative left the child in the back seat of his vehicle, parked in the sun with the windows closed.
It wasn't until almost six hours later at 5pm that someone realized the baby was missing.
Family members contacted the caregiver to ask where the child was, prompting a frantic search - and a heartbreaking discovery.
'They realized the child wasn't inside the home,' Gallegos said at a press briefing.
'Family members may have started CPR, but Albuquerque Fire Rescue took over. They tried for a long time to revive the child. Unfortunately, the child died at the scene.'
Although the official cause of death is pending an autopsy, police say all signs point to heatstroke.
'I know the family was really devastated at the scene,' Gallegos said. 'It was a pretty large extended family. So I ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers and be respectful of what they're going through right now.'
The neighborhood has been left stunned by the horror of what happened.
The National Weather Service estimates the interior of the parked vehicle could have reached more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit even though Albuquerque's high on Sunday was around 83 degrees. The closed car turned the vehicle into a oven.
According to experts, 80 percent of a car's temperature rise occurs in the first 10 minutes, making such tragedies horrifyingly quick.
'It doesn't have to be that hot outside for it to be deadly,' Gallegos stressed. 'Being in a hot truck with the windows up can get extremely hot after just a little bit of time.'
As temperatures rise with the warmer weather experts are once again urging vigilance.
'A child's body overheats three to five times faster than an adult's,' Gallegos said. 'Even at 72 degrees outside, the inside of a car can become deadly in minutes.'
Kids and Car Safety is pushing for more widespread use of technology like rear-seat reminders in vehicles, and greater public awareness campaigns - especially in states like New Mexico, where summer heat can strike with lethal speed.'
'Check the back seat,' Gallegos urged. 'Always.'
'The temperature the car can hit can go over 115 degrees - and in many cases, even higher. These situations happen at least once a year, and in some years, multiple times,' said Paul Szych, a public safety expert with KOAT.
Despite the devastating outcome, no arrests have been made but police say the case remains under investigation and that they've been working closely with the local district attorney and the Children, Youth and Families Department.
The young caregiver, who initially fled the scene before returning, has been interviewed but is not currently facing charges.
'His relatives speculated that he was just traumatized,' Gallegos said. 'They said he was a good person, but he was just in shock when this happened.'
Authorities have also confirmed that there is no prior history of child abuse or neglect involving the family.
According to the national nonprofit Kids and Car Safety, the death of the Albuquerque child marks the fourth hot car death of a child in the US this year.
Since 1990, at least 1,127 children have died in hot cars across the country and more than 7,500 have suffered injuries ranging from heat exhaustion to severe brain damage.
Nearly 90 percent of the victims are under the age of 3. In over half of those cases, the child was unknowingly left behind by a parent or caregiver.
'The problem is, people jump to the conclusion that a parent left a child in the vehicle,' said Valencia County Fire Chief Matt Propp. 'But a lot of times, it's somebody who's not accustomed to having a child with them - a family member, a friend. And those few hours - that's all it takes.'
Propp also voiced his frustration with bystanders who hesitate to intervene when they see a child trapped in a hot vehicle.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Medical News Today
22 minutes ago
- Medical News Today
Psilocybin for IBS: Could altering the mind help alter the gut?
Could magic mushrooms help relieve symptoms and treat IBS? A new study aims to find out. Irina Efremova/Stocksy Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common conditions affecting the gut. Despite its prevalence and decades of research, treatments are limited, and the underlying causes remain shrouded in mystery. An ongoing study, conducted by Erin Mauney, MD, is taking a fascinating new approach to this mysterious condition: psychedelics, and more specifically psilocybin. In this article, we will investigate why researcher Erin Mauney believes psilocybin — the active compound in magic mushrooms — might help treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and how her ongoing research is breaking new ground. To help us understand how altering the mind might alter the gut, we will first explore the links between body and brain. Historically — and, to a certain extent, still today — the mind and body have been considered separate. As science has progressed, it has become increasingly clear that, of course, the mind is part of the body. There is no separation. The brain is in tight communication with the body at all times via nerves and chemicals, like hormones and neurotransmitters, and the body talks back in the same language. This two-way interaction is perhaps most pronounced between the brain and the gut. The enteric nervous system (the nervous system of the gut) is the second-largest nervous system in the body after the brain. Some experts even refer to the gut as our 'second brain.' Although the enteric nervous system evolved first, so we could consider it the ' first brain .' Aside from their shared ancient pedigree, why would the gut and brain share such a tight link? In our modern world, where we are never more than 20 meters from a bagel, it is easy to forget that life on the Savannah millennia ago was much less convenient. The gut needed to tell the brain when it required refilling with enough time to hunt, scavenge, or forage for its next meal. As the food is ingested, the brain needs to ask the gut to ramp up its operations and prepare to digest. This relationship helps explain why we can feel longing in the pit of our stomach, and butterflies dance in our intestines when we feel excited: The gut and brain are in cahoots. Speaking in a recent interview, published in the journal Psychedelics , Mauney explains how, during her gastroenterology training, she 'became aware of how common trauma, especially early life trauma, is in the human experience.' 'Although there is more discussion in pediatrics about the cumulative effects of toxic stress over the lifespan,' she continues, 'I think overall this is an area that medicine, particularly gastroenterology and obesity medicine, really fails to understand and address meaningfully.' This piqued her interest in psychological approaches to gut issues. These links have led researchers to believe that IBS has a strong gut-brain component. Mauney and colleagues are currently embarking on the first-ever study to investigate whether talking therapy in conjunction with psilocybin might help relieve symptoms of IBS. Speaking in an interview with the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology ( JC G), Mauney explained that around 60% of people with IBS do not respond to first-line therapies, such as dietary interventions or medications. So, the scientists recruited people with IBS who had already tried a wide range of approaches without experiencing significant benefits. This, she explains, included talking therapies, mind-body therapies, dietary changes, and drugs. In her JC G interview, Mauney explains how psilocybin acts 'transdiagnostically.' In other words, it can alter a range of psychological domains that are common across multiple mental health conditions. For instance, she explains how the drug can influence psychological characteristics such as: Rigidity: An inability to adapt or change. An inability to adapt or change. Rumination: Dwelling on negative thoughts and feelings. Dwelling on negative thoughts and feelings. Anxious over-focus on the self: A preoccupation with personal matters, while almost forgetting the outside world. She also says that psychedelics like psilocybin can help some people shift ingrained thought patterns, which is another facet of many mental health conditions, and some people with IBS. Beyond the psychological aspects of psilocybin treatment, Mauney also has some gut-focused theories. As the gut digests food, it squeezes, swells, deflates, and so on. For most people, these movements cause no distress or go unnoticed. For people with IBS, however, these routine movements may cause discomfort or pain. This is called visceral hypersensitivity. Research in animals suggests that a subtype of serotonin receptors in the gut, called 5HT2a receptors, might play a role in visceral hypersensitivity. Why does this matter? Psilocybin primarily works by activating 5HT2a receptors — so, perhaps it might reduce these uncomfortable sensations. Aside from this link, as Mauney explains in her JCG interview, scientists have also explored whether psilocybin might reduce pain in general. For instance, researchers have examined, with differing results, whether psilocybin could help in the treatment of migraine headaches, chronic neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and more. Because IBS causes visceral pain, this is yet another potential mechanism by which it may impart benefits. With its potential to influence psychology, visceral hypersensitivity, pain, and inflammation, psilocybin is a hopeful candidate for the treatment of IBS. Now, we just need to see the data. Mauney and colleagues' ongoing study was halfway through enrollment as of her April 24th JC G interview. Although she was cautious not to preempt the findings, Mauney was excited to share that at least some of the participants had experienced benefits. In the study, participants are paired with two medical professionals with backgrounds in psychotherapy or psychiatry. Each of the two therapy sessions (two weeks apart) involves the 'dosing' part of the study, where the participant takes psilocybin and relaxes while listening to a carefully curated playlist. Then, the three of them discuss the participants' symptoms, previous life experiences, and whatever comes up during the session. In total, these sessions last 6–8 hours. Mauney explains how the psilocybin 'acts as an amplifier of therapeutic processes,' perhaps enhancing standard talking therapy. Although this approach has not worked for everyone in the trial, for some, Mauney says, it has. She explains that it has encouraged some individuals to engage deeply with difficult parts of their lives, make meaningful changes that they could not manage before, or influence close relationships in ways that have led to reduced symptoms. For others, their symptoms have remained unchanged, but they report that the symptoms are no longer so bothersome. Medical News Today reached out to Ruvini Wijetilaka, MD, a board certified Internal Medicine Physician at Mecca Health, who was not involved in the study. 'As a physician, I find this early research into psilocybin-assisted therapy for treatment-resistant IBS intriguing and encouraging,' she explained. 'IBS is a complex condition rooted in the brain-gut connection,' she continued, 'and traditional treatments don't always work for everyone.' 'In cases where symptoms persist despite initial interventions, psilocybin may offer a promising alternative for targeting the neurological pathways involved. It's an exciting area of exploration for patients who experience chronic, unrelenting symptoms and have few remaining options.' — Ruvini Wijetilaka, MD Mauney's study is the first to look at this relationship, and the preliminary results are encouraging. However, as she explains, the study is not yet complete, and it might not work. With that said, because the mechanistic theory is promising, and it seems that at least some people have already benefited, we might be forgiven for being optimistic. 'It might sound a little bit out there to the average gastroenterologist,' says Mauney. 'But I think this is really what's needed, and what our patients are calling out for. […] A holistic approach to their suffering.' 'People with IBS that are not responding to available treatments need more options. Under the right conditions, psychedelics are worth a try for this group,' he said. However, he also suggested comparing its efficacy with Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), which he told us has had some success in the treatment of 'people with chronic musculoskeletal pain, back pain (when combined with mindfulness), and long COVID.' Psilocybin is unlikely to work for everyone, but Mauney hopes that, at least for some, this intervention could improve thought processes and relieve the negative impact of a chronic condition that remains poorly understood. 'While more concrete research is needed on this, the study could mark a meaningful shift in how we approach IBS care and gut health as a whole,' concluded Wijetilaka.
Daily Mail
26 minutes ago
- Daily Mail
Urgent nationwide recall of 1.7m popular home appliances as 17 people are poisoned
A wildly popular home appliance used in millions of American households has been urgently recalled after it was found to be exposing people to dangerous mold growth. Officials say at least 152 customers have reported mold contamination in the units, with 17 of them falling ill. An investigation is underway to determine the source and full scope of the outbreak. Midea, a major appliance manufacturer, pulled approximately 1.7 million U and U+ window air conditioners from the US market on June 5, following reports of mold contamination. The brand names included in the recall are: Midea, Comfort Aire, Danby, Frigidaire, Insignia, Keystone, LBG Products, Mr Cool, Perfect Aire, and Sea Breeze. These names appear on the front of the units, while the model number can be found on a label located on the front right side when facing the appliance. The products were sold through major retailers both in physical stores and online, including Costco, Best Buy, Home Depot, Menards, and from March 2020 to May 2025 for $280 to $500. Each unit is white and measures approximately 22 inches wide by 14 inches high. According to the CPSC, they were sold under 13 different brand names. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a warning that the affected units have drainage issues, which can cause water to pool inside the machines, creating the perfect conditions for mold growth. Pictured are the recalled air conditioners and model numbers 'Pooled water in the air conditioners can fail to drain quickly enough, which can lead to mold growth,' the CPSC said in a statement. Exposure to mold can result in respiratory infections, allergic reactions, and other health issues, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions. Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moist environments and can release harmful allergens or toxins into the air. Affected customers are eligible for either a free repair or a refund, depending on the model and date of purchase. 'Consumers who want a refund will be asked to return the unit using a free shipping label, or they may submit a photograph showing that they've cut the unplugged power cord to qualify for the refund,' the CPSC explained. Federal officials are urging consumers to stop using the recalled units immediately, particularly if anyone in the household is experiencing symptoms consistent with mold exposure. The recalled units come in three sizes, capable of cooling rooms at 8,000, 10,000, or 12,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs). They were manufactured in China and Thailand by GD Midea Air-Conditioning Co, Ltd. Each unit was sold with a remote control and can also be operated via a mobile app. The specific issue lies in the internal drainage system. If the reservoir does not empty quickly enough, stagnant water can accumulate, leading to mold growth inside the appliance. As the mold builds up, the unit may begin dispersing spores into the air, posing a health hazard for anyone nearby. Mold exposure poses a heightened risk for individuals with chronic respiratory issues such as asthma, lung disease, or weakened immune systems. According to the CDC, common symptoms of mold exposure include a stuffy nose, wheezing, fatigue, and red or itchy eyes or skin. Severe cases may result in fever or difficulty breathing. 'People with asthma or who are allergic to mold may have severe reactions,' the CDC states. 'Immunocompromised people and people with chronic lung disease may get infections in their lungs from mold.' Consumers who choose to continue using their air conditioner while waiting for a repair should follow the safety inspection instructions provided on Midea's recall page. To begin the refund or repair process, visit the Midea recall website or call 888-345-0251 between 8 am and 5 pm ET, Monday through Friday. The official recall number issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission is 25-320.
Daily Mail
27 minutes ago
- Daily Mail
BREAKING NEWS Second man arrested on suspicion of murder over death of 'innocent' schoolboy, 16, who killed in hit and run by Audi that 'swerved towards e-bike riders'
A second man has been arrested on suspicion of murder over the death of an 'innocent' child killed in suspected a hit-and-run attack. Abdullah Yaha Al-Zaidy was tragically struck down by a grey Audi while walking along the pavement in Staniforth Road, Sheffield, on Wednesday afternoon. Detectives said the Audi appeared to swerve towards three e-bike riders, colliding with one of them before hitting the boy and driving off. The 16-year-old was taken to hospital after the incident in the Darnall area of the city on Wednesday but later died. South Yorkshire Police said a 26-year-old man, who had been detained on suspicion of assisting an offender, has now been re-arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. It follows the arrest of a 20-year-old man on suspicion of the same offences in Kent on Thursday. Both men remain in custody. Detectives said they believe a grey Audi drove towards three electric bikes, colliding with one rider, who suffered serious injuries which are not thought to be life-threatening. The Audi then collided with the teenager and failed to stop at the scene, officers said. Two people, a man aged 46 and a woman aged 45, who were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender have both been bailed pending further enquiries. Abdullah, known locally as Abdul, was reportedly walking to a nearby shop to meet his father with the two having plans to later eat together, when the tragedy happened. The community paid tribute to him in an announcement on social media, which said: 'May Allah grant him the highest ranks of Jannah and grant his family and friends strength and patience during this unimaginable time.' It added: 'It is deeply heartbreaking to see his photo—a boy always smiling, always full of joy. 'He worked tirelessly alongside his father and had plans to begin college soon.' Video footage shared online appears to show two e-bike riders and a motorcyclist travelling along the road before the grey Audi, driving in the opposite direction, suddenly veers across the carriageway. In harrowing footage, the motorcyclist narrowly misses the car while one of the e-bike riders is hit head on, being thrown into the air and into the hedge in front of a property. Less than a second later, the driver continues on a further 80ft, crashing into the 16-year-old who had just stopped walking on the pavement. The incident happened shortly after 4.50pm on Wednesday in Staniforth Road in the Darnall area Senior Investigating Officer in the case, Detective Chief Inspector Benjamin Wood, said: 'This is a tragic incident in which an entirely innocent bystander, who was going about his daily business, has sadly lost his life. Our thoughts are with the boy's loved ones, and we remain focused on securing justice for them. 'We know that this incident will have caused concern in the local community, and we have a team of detectives working at pace to piece together the circumstances which unfolded. 'We're aware of footage being shared online and I'd like to reiterate our message to the public to withhold from speculating or circulating videos which may cause distress to the boy's family. 'If you have any footage, imagery or information that may help our investigation, then please share this directly with us – it may form an important part of our enquiries. We are also keen to hear from the riders of two electric bikes who were in the area at the time of the incident.' Mojid Khan said the boy came to rest at the gates of his Staniforth Road wholesale business, and his staff were the first on the scene after hearing the collision. He said he arrived half an hour later and was shocked to see what his CCTV system had recorded. Mr Khan said yesterday: 'When it happens on your doorstep, literally, it does affect you. It's quite horrific to see how it happens.' He said: 'I think it's a local lad that's passed away and another local lad that got injured on a motorbike. It's shocking for us as a community. 'The disturbing thing is that this is not the first time that this has happened. It seems every few months something like this is going on. 'I think that's a matter for our politicians to do something about.' He said: 'Tomorrow is our Eid festival. That's going to hit them (the boy's family) even harder. 'It should be a happy day. I'm really sad for the family. Their loss is going to be that much greater tomorrow.' Lauren, 31, who did not wish to give her surname, was giving CPR to the teenager and shouting to ask people to help. She said: 'I don't want to go in to detail, it was traumatic – a young, beautiful boy has lost his life to something he wasn't even involved in.'
