The Brief
- A child’s death was under investigation in Orange County.
- The 2-year-old’s mother was giving him a bath when she stepped away for a few moments.
- Officials said the mother also suffered injuries.
PLACENTIA, Calif. – Authorities are investigating the death of a 2-year-old child who was found unresponsive inside an Orange County home, in what may have been a drowning in a plastic bin used as a makeshift bathtub.
What we know:
Officers with the Placentia Police Department were called to a home near S. Main Street and W. Santa Fe Avenue just after 9 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22.
Child Pronounced Dead at Hospital
Officials with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department said the toddler was rushed to Placentia Linda Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department confirmed the case remains an active investigation.
Parents Questioned, Mother Hospitalized
Both parents, who are in their 40s, are cooperating with investigators. The father is being questioned, while the mother was taken to a hospital with undisclosed injuries. Deputies described the mother as being in a near catatonic state, while the father appeared hysterical.
Four Other Children Inside Home
Four other children, who are step-siblings of the victim, were inside the home at the time of the incident. Deputies say they appeared to be in good condition and provided statements to investigators. A chaplain was called to the scene to assist the family.…