DINWIDDIE COUNTY, Va. (WTVR) - Authorities said a 19-month-old discovered inside a hot car is recovering in the hospital.
The Dinwiddie County Sheriff’s Office said the toddler was found inside a car near the intersections of Halifax Road and Oak Grove roads in Dinwiddie County Wednesday afternoon.
The father of the little boy found him suffering inside a searing hot vehicle Wednesday afternoon in a rural part of the county.
Following an initial call to 911, shortly after 3 p.m., the father called rescuers back and said he was taking his son to Southside Regional Medical Center.
"There are still a lot of questions unanswered and the investigation is ongoing," said Major William Knott with the Dinwiddie Sheriff’s Department. "The investigation is early so no charges have been filed at this time.”
The Sheriff`s Department and Dinwiddie Social Services responded to the hospital and began an investigation. After receiving treatment -- and realizing the boy needed extensive care -- he was rushed to VCU Medical Center.
It is believed that the father is a Petersburg Police officer, but a Petersburg Police Department spokesperson said personnel matters remain private and would not comment.
At last check late Thursday afternoon, the boy was in stable condition at VCU Medical Center.
The Dinwiddie Sheriff’s Department is working with the Dinwiddie Child Protective Services Department and the Commonwealth’s Attorney to determine if charges will be filed.
Across the street from where the boy was discovered, neighbor Lashanda Moore said her heart aches for the little boy and his family.
“I would like to think that I`d never have something like that happen to my child,” said Moore. "Even though I'm a mother of a month old child I don`t want to leave her out of my sight for two seconds. I know it is unfortunate all we can do is pray the child will be ok."
Investigators said the incident is a sad reminder for parents to know where your children are at all times.
“Children are very mobile," said Major Knott. "They`re just learning to get around. It doesn`t take but a second and they can be gone.”
