Peoria police: Infant left in hot car dies

PEORIA, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Peoria police responded to an apartment complex near 85th Avenue and Peoria around 2:45 p.m. for a report of an infant not breathing.

"We were just hearing people saying a baby was left in hot car for like three hours," Amilia Berkey said.

When police arrived, they found a 5-month-old boy in an apartment.'

"Upon arrival the child was found to not be breathing," Officer Brandon Sheffert said. "That child was transported to the hospital in critical condition. He was pronounced deceased at the hospital a short time later."

Police say the child was possibly left inside the car for several hours before getting brought to the apartment. A man and woman who police say are the caretakers were taken into custody for questioning.

"It was not the parents who were caring for the child at the time," Officer Sheffert said.

"Who initially found the child and who called police?" FOX 10's Danielle Miller asked.

"I believe it was a combination of a neighbor and one of the caretakers that called us," Officer Sheffert replied.

"It's devastating for a life to be taken at 5-months-old," Berkey said. "It's just so soon. Just keep an eye on your children. Don't leave them anywhere."