Long Island dad leaves 2-year-old in car to shop at Walmart: cops
A 36-year-old Long Island father was arrested after allegedly leaving his 2-year-old son in a hot car for about 20 minutes while he went shopping at Walmart. The incident occurred in Centereach on a scorching Tuesday afternoon when temperatures soared to around 100 degrees.
The child was left inside a Toyota Highlander with only a crack in the window and the engine turned off in the Walmart parking lot. A concerned citizen noticed the toddler asleep in the car and immediately called 911 for help. Police were able to unlock the vehicle through the window and safely rescue the child.
Upon the father, Keniarold Andre, returning to the car, he was taken into custody and charged with endangering the welfare of a child. The boy was then transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for treatment and was reported to be in stable condition.
The child will be released into the care of a family member as soon as possible. Andre is scheduled to appear at First Central District Court in Central Islip for arraignment on Wednesday.
This negligent act serves as a reminder of the dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles, especially during extreme weather conditions. It is crucial for parents and caregivers to always prioritize the safety and well-being of children, ensuring they are never left alone in potentially dangerous situations.
