HARFORD COUNTY, Md. — A six-month-old infant died Sunday after being left in a vehicle for several hours during hot weather, according to officials from the Harford County Sheriff’s Office.
The baby was found unresponsive inside the car, and authorities confirmed the child had been left in the vehicle for an extended period. Details about the exact duration or surrounding circumstances have not been released.
Medical experts say car temperatures can rise rapidly, becoming life-threatening even when outside conditions seem mild. Dr. Megan Cobb, an emergency pediatrician at the University of Maryland Children’s Hospital, said internal car temperatures can reach up to 120 degrees within the first 30 minutes.
She noted that these tragedies do not follow a specific pattern. Families of all backgrounds, income levels, and education levels have experienced similar incidents. Dr. Cobb urged caregivers to adopt habits and visual reminders to ensure children are not accidentally left behind.
Experts warn that fatal heatstroke in children can happen even when outdoor temperatures are between 60 and 70 degrees. Technology, reminders, and routine safety checks have been cited as key tools in preventing future tragedies.
No charges have been announced as the investigation continues.