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SPOTLIGHT
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Police: Infant's death likely an accident

Published on -7/10/2009, 12:49 PM

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By RYAN CHRISTNER

rchristner@dailynews.net

Police continue to gather information about the death of a 3-month-old child left inside a vehicle throughout Thursday morning and afternoon.

Ellis County Coroner Ward Newcomb is assisting with the investigation.

After making the proper notifications of family, Hays police this morning released the identity of the infant as Elle Runnion, the daughter of Brian and Eula Runnion of Hays.

At this point in time, the death is believed to simply be a "tragic accident," according to a release by the Hays Police Department.

Officers were notified about 3:20 p.m. by a parent of the child that she "had accidentally been left in a car seat inside a vehicle," the release said.

The child was pronounced dead following the arrival of emergency personnel.

Assistant Police Chief Phil Hartsfield said this morning the car had been parked along Cedar Street near 13th between businesses since approximately 7 or 8 a.m.

"All preliminary information gathered by the coroner and law enforcement suggests that the child's death was a tragic accident," the release said. "However, because this qualifies as an unattended death, the coroner and the Hays Police will follow established protocol to completely investigate the child's death."

So far, that has included the notification of Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees and preparations for the medical examination of the child's body.

Daina Hodges, outreach coordinator for Safe Kids Kansas, said it is important to remember these types of situations can happen to anyone.

"There's absolutely no typical family that is affected by these tragedies," she said.

To help reduce the number of heat-related fatalities, Safe Kids Kansas, a non-profit organization overseen by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, suggests these tips for parents and caregivers:

* Teach children not to play in, on or around vehicles.

* Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even with the window slightly open.

* Always lock a vehicle's doors and trunk -- especially at home. Keep keys and remote entry devices out of children's reach.

* Place something that you'll need at your next stop -- such as a purse, a lunch, gym bag or briefcase -- on the floor of the back seat where the child is sitting. This simple act could help prevent you from accidentally forgetting a child.

* Call parents when children do not show up at their normally scheduled time to day care.

229 comment(s) found
a feeling: 9/8/2009
Hey ya all!!!!! Just remember when your pointing one finger forward, there are three pointing back at you. Yes, you maybe your not so prefect either. i left Hays, Ya I miss the convience, but I don't miss Hays. Remember the clickness of all the people there. If you have a certain name, your in. If you don't your OUT, not getting in. Remember has SUXS. This is MY own opinion only . Opinions are like ***holes we all have one. Well, Hays has alot. Leave them alone, they have to live with themselves. Right now that's hard for them to. The guilt is horrible I know from experience. So if your so perfect get out of the way, I'm to good fro you. I don't want ys near to cloud my thoughts up. Have a nice day.
(Posted by: Carol S)
Time for reality: 8/10/2009
I see lots of bickering, but stupidity abounds, and it isn't one sided. Whether we call this an accident or a mistake doesn't matter. It is both. These parents made mistakes that could have been avoided, but they were not mistakes that blame is easy to assign. They were errors in judgement. They were mistakes that at the time were not obvious. The parents do not need to go to jail for this as they will punish themselves as long as they live for it. They know in hindsight they could have prevented it, but what's done is done. I think there are those who this could never happen to, and those who I'm surprised have never had it happen. The lesson I see in this is that we must all remember our priorities. Another person can cover for you at work. A boss can yell at you for being late and you'll just need to learn to deal with it. But a small child only has that person they are with to depend on and it must always supercede all other tasks. So this was no evil act by the parents. This was also not God calling her home because he needed another angel. Please don't say things like that to adults, as it insults the intelligence.
(Posted by: Steve)
infants death: 8/7/2009
freedom of speech is what people need to display and stop sugar coating this matter.
(Posted by: jaime hays resident)
: 7/27/2009
I agree that this was a tragic accident and can't begin to imagine what these parents and this family are going through. They are certainly in our prayers. In reading through some of these posts its crazy what some Christians are saying in efforts to comfort those hurting, "God took her cause he needed another angel"?? First off humans aren't angels and they never will be. God is the author of life and credit doesn't belong to God for this tragedy!! You may be trying to make someone feel better, but FYI, God doesn't kill your child! Please stop saying this garbage.
(Posted by: Seth)
: 7/24/2009
I'm a mother of 2 small children. My husband & I work full-time, so the kids attend daycare all day. Even when busy at work, my kids are on my mind. They are my reason for being. Unfortunately, accidents happen (even to good people), and for some reason God decided it was time for this young child to become an angel by His side. However, we live in a society that has laws and holds people accountable for their actions. Hopefully, this tragic story will set an example for others so this never happens again. God bless you little one.
(Posted by: )
: 7/24/2009
Trying to keep a open mind since this is such a touchy subject. My heart sincerely goes out to the family of this young child; however, legal action must be taken. In every death, whether accidental or not, child or adult, people must be held accountable for their actions. If a child ran out in front of a moving vehicle and was killed, the driver could face charges even though they were not the cause of the accident. It's unfortunate, but the law is to perform a thorough investigation so this never happens again.
(Posted by: Former Hays Resident)
Taking credit for comments: 7/15/2009
I have not found a negative comment yet that has been signed by an "actual" person. Yes, there is freedom of speech but if you're so worried about what people will think of you if you post negative then why are you posting anything at all? If you write a letter to the editor of a paper it will not be printed unless there is a name to go with it, why should this be any different? I think anything on here should be deleted if it isn't signed.
(Posted by: a moses)
Tragedy: 7/15/2009
No one will suffer more than the parents are suffering at this moment. How do you think they will be feeling at the time of the service having to lay their beloved infant to rest knowing they were the inadvertent cause? How will they feel everyday of their lives let alone the annual date of this horrible tragedy? May God bless this family and have mercy on them and bless their child in Heaven. Common sense will rule in this case over any possible legal action.
(Posted by: Sad and Sorrow)
before u judge: 7/14/2009
trust me elle was loved very much...this was truly an accident....and everyone needs to think before they post...how would u feel if something like this happened to u...and everyone around u seemed to think it was all ur fault...God said it was elle's time...if it wasnt this it would have been something else....u have to understand what its like for them...what its like having to wake up every morning for the rest of there lives and remember there baby girl...and the tradgic thing that happened to her....so before u judge them....remember accidents can happen....and how would u feel if it was u...
(Posted by: a friend)
: 7/14/2009
in my opinion her has been punished enough...what can they do that is worse then the lose of a child and knowing that it was something u did to cause it.....
(Posted by: )
: 7/14/2009
I am very sorry for your loss
(Posted by: )
The Family of Elle: 7/14/2009
When Tomorrow Starts Without Me When tomorrow starts without me, and I’m not there to see; If the sun should rise and find your eyes, all filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn’t cry, the way you did today, while thinking of the many things, we didn’t get to say. I know how much you love me, as much as I love you, and each time that you think of me, I know you’ll miss me too; But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an Angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand, and said my place was ready, in heaven far above, and that I’d have to leave behind, all those I dearly love. But as I turned to walk away, a tear fell from my eye, for all life, I’d always thought, I didn’t want to die. I had so much to live for, so much yet to do, It seemed almost impossible, that I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad, I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, just even for awhile, I’d say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized, that this could never be, for emptiness and memories, would take the place of me. And when I though of worldly things, I might miss come tomorrow, I thought of you, and when I did, my heart was filled with sorrow. But when I walked through heaven’s gates, I felt so much at home. When God looked down and smiled at me, from His great golden throne, He said, "This is eternity, and all I’ve promised you". Today for life on earth is past, but here it starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last, and since each day’s the same day, there’s no longing for the past. But you have been so faithful, so trusting and so true. Though there were times you did some things, you knew you shouldn’t do. But you have been forgiven and now at last you’re free. So won’t you take my hand and share my life with me? So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart, for every time you think of me, I’m right here, in your heart. David M. Romano
(Posted by: A Caring Hays Resident)
The Family of Elle :): 7/14/2009
I was on my way to work this weekend when I heard over the radio how you could name a star after someone. I thought about Elle as soon as it came on. Then on the way home from work I heard it broadcasted again and I went home and told my husband that someone should do this for this precious baby girl. The website is http://www.starregistry.com/. I don't know you guys (the family) personally, but I think this would be a great tribute to this precious baby that God decided to take from this world so soon. I would love for someone to do this for Brian and Eula and I think they would appreciate it greatly coming from a family member. My heart goes out to Brian and Eula and I pray for them daily. They are lucky to have family like you guys for the love and support that you show them. Your outpouring of love is what helps them get through their loss...one day at a time. If there was ever a time that they needed you most, this is it. God Bless you guys!! Remembering Angel Elle March 20th, 2009 to July 9th, 2009 IF TEARS COULD BUILD A STAIRWAY If tears could build a stairway And memories were a lane We would walk right up to Heaven And bring you back again No farewell words were spoken No time to say goodbye You were gone before we knew it And only God knows why Our hearts still ache in sadness And secret tears still flow What it meant to lose you No on will ever know But know we know you want us To mourn for you no more To remember all the happy times Life still has much in store Since you’ll never be forgotten We pledge to you today A hallowed place within our hearts Is where you’ll always stay Author Unknown
(Posted by: A CARING HAYS RESIDENT)
baby's death: 7/14/2009
I just finished reading all the comments on this poor babies death. How sad for the baby and the parents. Whether being a good parent or an accident there should be accountability for this occurance. If not then another bad example has been set for society.
(Posted by: Be accountable)
: 7/14/2009
I think everyone needs to think about one really important thing.... what if it had been you. Yes, we are all entitled to our opinions on the situtation, and yes, we can share them. However, for everyone who is out to cut throats... how would you like to be treated if it was you. We would like to think that we are infalible, but we aren't. This could have just as easily been you. You can swear up and down that it will never be you and you could never do that you your child. The moral of the story is never say never because anything is possible. We are all next in line to be the next one that something could never happen too. Just remember... when its your turn how do you want to be treated? Yes, the situation is bad, but I think they are suffering enough without your help. Before you judge others judge yourself. Maybe if your so perfect that you can judge everyone else without consiquence you should be in a postion where you can actually do something about a situation like this, except hide behind a screen name. Eula and Brain there are those of use who are truly behind both of you. We hope and wish for the best for you both.
(Posted by: Emily Z)
Serious: 7/14/2009
Shame on the Hays Daily News for letting anyone comment on an incident like this. I'm so thankful I don't pay for this garbage!!
(Posted by: Embarrassed Hays Resident)
1st amendment rights!: 7/13/2009
rip baby elle! everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and speech. this is the USA afterall and baby is a dead! let everyone express their grief in this town in their own way and with the American way. This isn't press 1 for English--this is about a beautiful, adorable baby left to die in the heat. its very sad, however, 1st amendment rights rule! so do criminal charges hopefully!
(Posted by: no one)
Infants death: 7/13/2009
Stop pointing fingers? Why? Drowning in a pool is an accident, getting hit by a car is an accident, falling off your bike is an accident. Putting your 3 mth old baby in a car and driving a short distance and FORGETTING your own child is not an accident. It doesn't matter if we know the family or not, a child was forgotten and obviously wasn't given another thought the rest of the day. Come on, we're all busy with kids, jobs,schedules and life in general. I guess I can see it slipping your mind for a short time, but at some point something should have clicked. It's a terrible terrible loss and its sad and hurtful to go through as a parent, but a choice was made to be a parent. Its a huge responsibility and you just cant forget. Babies need and rely on you 100%!!
(Posted by: Heartbroken mother)
family friend: 7/13/2009
For all of you who are quick to judge this couple, please STOP! They are a wonderful couple who were thrilled to be parents and loved Elle very much. They are suffering enough with the loss of their daughter. Brian and Eula do not need to be judged or criticized anymore. What they need is the support of their friends, family, and community. My husband and I have been praying for them nonstop and wish everyone would do the same. The bible says "he who is without sin cast the first stone", no one is perfect so please stop throwing and start praying and supporting this family. Brian & Eula, I want you both to know you have all our support and love. We will continue to pray for you. You will be missed dearly baby Elle, we love you.
(Posted by: Harrel )
Why is it?: 7/13/2009
Why is it that if a child chokes on a small item left on the floor or a piece of food not cut up small enough, the parents are not charged with negligence? Do you remember the story in northeast KS of a toddler who wanted to feed his sibling and the baby died when the powdered formula got into his lungs... were those parents charged with neglect? When a child drowns in a pool in the back yard, are the parents charged with neglect? When a child accidentally gets backed over by a vehicle because the parent didn't walk around the car before getting in, is it neglect? How about children who die in "farming accidents" such as being run over by a tractor. Are those parents charged with negligence or wreckless endangerment? What about a small child who gets into the medicine cabinet and swallows too many pills thinking it's candy. Are these parents charged with negligence? No, no, no.... these are very misfortunate ACCIDENTS! We are all human and therefore we all make mistakes. Unfortunately for Elle and her family, this mistake was fatal, and one that they will live with for the rest of their lives. I hope everyone can learn something from this... we must slow down and not take for granted what we have because you NEVER know when it will be gone. All of you who are condemning these parents should be ashamed of yourselves as you have also made mistakes that *could have* ended horribly but didn't. God bless you Brian and Eula in this most difficult time in your lives. I am very sorry for your loss. May you have the strength to overcome this together and find peace in your hearts.
(Posted by: an understanding mom)
Forgetting: 7/13/2009
For those of you who keep using your forgetfulness at one time as a justification for this, please remember that your incidences are different because you remembered the child. That did not happen here, and there is a neglect issue. While some posts may be hurtful, that does not mean that all posts calling for just punishment be pulled. My prayers are with this family, and I grieve for them all. But, that does not mean that I don't feel there should be accountability and responsibility. I tell my children (almost daily) that just because it was an accident doesn't mean it didn't hurt, or that you don't have to be accountable. There are just punishments for many accidents. The grief felt by the responsible party is not a substitute for accountability.
(Posted by: Sad and angry)
baby elle: 7/13/2009
I have sat the last almost 45 minutes reading all the comments on this posting. Are some of the comments hateful? Absolutely.. but honestly. The child was buckled into her car seat, I have 3 children of my own - and fostered many more. No matter how tired you are, you still buckled that child in. Its not like even if the child was sleeping the drive was that long that she was simply forgotten in even 30-45 min. What this was - and is is neglect. And the parent should be charged as such. An accident is locking the keys in a car, and the child being left in there.. Neglect is leaving that child all day in that vehicle and that poor child suffering from heat exhaustion, dehydration, and finally death. What a sad and preventable tragedy. May god have mercy on this family.
(Posted by: Jamie in Montana)
Baby Elle: 7/13/2009
My Heart goes out to Brian & Eula. May God Bless you in this time of loss. Tragic accidents happen and may God be with you at this time of both of your pain and just love each other more and heal.
(Posted by: Elaine Diehl)
: 7/13/2009
For once Hays' Finest are making a sound decision.
(Posted by: )
sympathy to the parents.: 7/13/2009
maybe God took baby elle so she wouldn't be forgotten in that family for years to come. rip baby elle.
(Posted by: no one)
Compassion: 7/13/2009
Anyone heard of it??
(Posted by: xx)
forget??: 7/12/2009
I am a mother of 7 children in which my youngest two are still considered infants and you know what I take care of these kids day in and day out and when I have to go to the store or to any resident or business I am sure to take them all in and secondly before I walk away from the car i do a head count to make sure they are all there not to FORGET on of them. Now here is the thing shouldn't the parent who "forgot" the child in the care be charged with something, I mean come on think about it who has heat exahuastion at 7 or 8 am. I am truely sorry for the loss of an innocent baby, but personally I think something punishable by law should happen.
(Posted by: a mother of 7)
: 7/12/2009
Shame on all of you who are judgemental. I have four kids and things can get extremely hectic. Accidents happen and this is a horrible accident. For all of you who know more than the police, keep your opinions to yourselves unless you have some proof of your claims. The anguish these people feel is most likely the worst hell they could ever imagine, so let it be.
(Posted by: Robyn)
: 7/12/2009
I feel so sorry for the baby. And sorry for the parents. But, how can you go all day without thinking of your child, calling to check on your child, or calling your spouse who might not normally deliver the child to daycare- just to make sure that everything went ok? Why did the babysitter not call the parents to find out why the child had not arrived?
(Posted by: ??)
: 7/12/2009
First of all, my thoughts and prayers are with those who knew and loved Elle. It's sickening that HDN has allowed some of the rude, hateful comments related to this tragic story. It's unfortunate that some people feel they have the right to judge others whom they've never met or judge a situation that they have no first-hand knowledge of. I have no relation to anyone in this family, I don't live in the Hays community, and the only information I know about this story is from the article above, but I am a human being who has compassion and understanding that tragic events and accidents can and DO happen to people every day. Those of you who seem to feel otherwise need a lesson in something called LIFE.
(Posted by: )
baby elle: 7/12/2009
For those of you that are so quick to judge there is an article printed in the Washington Post (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2009/03/06/ST2009030602446.html?sid=ST2009030602446)that would bear reading. This type of thing is not an isolated incident and instead of wasting time and energy condeming people, it would be better spent by all of us finding a way to make sure that this doesn't happen to more people. Next time it might be your best friend or relative that has to deal with this tragic incident. With the technology of the day and age, there has to be some way to insure this type of thing can't happen again. Like it or not people ARE fallible no matter how organized and dilegent they are. We need solutions not judgemnts. Our prayers are with this family and all the other families that have lost a child in this most tragic way.
(Posted by: NB phillipsburg)
Give this a rest: 7/12/2009
I can not wait for this story to end from this site. You people are horrible who criticize a situation you do not know anything about. I pray that this mother and father are not wasting there time reading this rubbish. All of you better hope that nothing horrible like this happens to you----in which you wish evil on a person it will come back to haunt you.
(Posted by: an understandin person)
voice for baby: 7/12/2009
those who makeing neg. comments forget that baby loved her mommy and daddy. they are her favorite two people in the whole world. she is looking down very sad that their are aweful people her on earth putting mommy and daddy down. she loves them. jeasus loves them. stop let baby rest in peace. leave the mommy and daddy alone. sooo sad! shame. god bless the family
(Posted by: christine simon)
shame on the neg. remarks: 7/12/2009
those of you makeing neg. remarks are no better. do you want to be responsable for another death. shame on you. jeasus dont like us to judge. jeasus loves them and is with them right now. shame on those with the negative remarks, you dont even know. shame. hope something like this dont happen to you or ones close to you. shame shame. knock it off. my heart and prayers go out to this family. bless their hearts.
(Posted by: christine simon)
shame on you: 7/12/2009
for all you negative people out there, i bet you have, at least once in your life, put your child in a car without a seatbelt. you are fully aware of the chances you take but do it anyway. knowing that if you had an accident your child would not survive.that is way worse than the accident that has happened here. i would like to know when your family has a death and so we could write awful things about you, and blame you. how would you feel reading these comments? my heart, thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
(Posted by: Niki B)
YES: 7/12/2009
Tragedy? YES Child Neglect? YES Should the parent who left the child in the car be chearged with neglect? YES
(Posted by: Once Proud)
: 7/11/2009
I am sorry I have three kids myself and not once would I ever leave them in the car. I mean come on the excuse that a change in routine caused it. That is no excuse that you just merely forgot you had your child with you.
(Posted by: )
hmmm: 7/11/2009
How does 'accidental death' replace something along the lives of neglect here? I understand they both thought she was at daycare. But its not like the baby passed in its crib of SIDS, its was left in a car! That baby couldn't have taken care of itself in anyway shape or form. If they dismiss any charges, I won't be shocked. But these people need some kind of meeting or class on, not parenting, but responsibility or life management. If they were honestly too preoccupied or maybe tired to realize this massive mistake they made until too late, something has got to give. Its comes off as though they may have had too much on their plate to handle it all at once.
(Posted by: e)
Prayer: 7/11/2009
May God bless you in your time of need.
(Posted by: Colorado)
Haters: 7/11/2009
For all of you haters, why don't you go ahead and post your names? Why are you saying such hateful things about this situation when you know nothing about it? That's right, go ahead and judge but don't leave your name. You are the cowards. Leave the family alone. They lost their baby. They don't need grief from people who are too ashamed to post their names.
(Posted by: None of your business)
Sorrow: 7/11/2009
First off - I feel so sorry for Brian and Eula in this horrible tragedy that has inflicted them, as I know it is a life changing experience one that they will never totally recover from. Secondly - Why did so many people feel the need to comment negatively or critically. We all have messed up. We all have done things I have regret. I am reminded of when they were going to stone the prostitute in the bible, and Jesus said those of you that are without sin cast the first stone. everyone dropped their stone. and so should everyone who wants to throw hurtful words at this unfortunate couple. I'm proud to say I've known Eula all my life, and Brian for quite a while. Eula: I can't begin to understand what your going through. Remember God will see you through this. Lean on his everlasting arms through this. Don't loose your smile and laughter even, or you will have lost more than even elly. Now is when you need your church family and now is when you need to be praying to god. (Oh and for the idiot that thought god might have seen something bad in Ellys future and that is why it happened. You need to be committed. ) Your family and true friends will be there to see you through this. The pain will heal with time Eula, but now is a time of mourning for you and your family. I will see you sometime and let you know I wrote this. Your a good person Eula.
(Posted by: John Dillinger)
: 7/11/2009
i understand that the media puts out more stuff than they should but how can u not say anything on this when there is no way the baby can talk and tell how painful it was in the hot car and to be forgotten. i mean come on there should be someone held responsible for this, this is not a tragic accident a baby lost thier life because they were forgotten. if charges are not filed i think there should be a protest
(Posted by: why are there no charges)
really????: 7/11/2009
i can not believe that this is a accident and no charges are being filed how can this be?? If it was anyone else they would have already filed charges. i know someone that left her child in the car for 10 minutes and had cops come and check the kid and tell her if she did it again they would press charges but u forget your child and it dies and it a accident how doule standard is that
(Posted by: worried parent )
It will get better...: 7/11/2009
My heart goes out to your family. I lost a child two years ago, because of an early birth. I got to spend some time with him before he passed. Just remember to be thankful for the time you shared with your child, and feel very blessed that you have an amazing daughter watching over you at all times. God needed her for a reason! Hang in the Eula and Brian, it gets better. My family is praying for you!
(Posted by: Hays Res.)
Baby: 7/11/2009
There are many accidents where people are charged and put in prison. The problem with this is the baby was left in the car for 5 hours. There is NO excuse for this! People have the right to express their opinion no matter what you all think. The Hays DA better be on his toes or you need to vote him out.
(Posted by: Feed up)
PRAYING FOR YOU: 7/11/2009
Eula and Brain my heart goes out to you during this time. Want you to know that my family is praying for all of you. God Bless Precious Baby Elle.
(Posted by: Tiffany)
Shame on you "Double Standard": 7/11/2009
Double Standard, You are absolutely without compassion. You must be a real jerk to not have compassion for people who loose their baby. Get a life.
(Posted by: )
It can happen to any of us.: 7/11/2009
I'm sickened by some of you placing blame / scolding the parents. I have kids and I can tell you one hot September morning, only when I entered my office did I remember my 1 year old was still in the car. Luckily, it was still early morning but make no mistake about it... IT CAN HAPPEN TO YOU JUST AS MANY OF US HAVE NEARLY MADE THE SAME MISTAKE. INSPITE OF YOUR SELF EVALUATION, YOU ARE NOT PERFECT. Pray for the family and stop the mean-spirited comments.
(Posted by: )
I'm not going to pray for them: 7/11/2009
The infant was an innocent, she will go to heaven, no prayer needed. And what am I to pray for the parents for? That they wont forget about their next child? Besides, I'm Pagan.
(Posted by: E)
Irresponsible Much?: 7/11/2009
This is rediculous. They BOTH thought the baby was at daycare? So they BOTH assumed the other took the child to daycare? How could you know think about your INFANT for 8 whole hours????
(Posted by: Shoulda cracked the window...)
: 7/11/2009
Let He Who is Without Sin Cast the First Stone Matt. 7:1
(Posted by: Caring For The Family)
Baby Elle: 7/11/2009
All I can say is that I feel sorry for the children of you parents that are spouting venom, too bad they have to be raised by someone who is as heartless as you. Most of you do not even know Brian and Eula, and have not right to judge them. They were so proud of their little Elle and with the father having to live with the horrible guilt is bad enough, without hertless thoughtless crass people such as you. I have known Eula for years, she was a friend of my granddaughter. Eula has been in our home many times. Our granddaughter sang in their wedding and our son in law a minister performed the ceremony. It Was an accident, there is no one to blame, only crushed heavy empty hearts. Oh Jesus, please comfort them and their families. Hold them on you lap and let them lean on you.
(Posted by: JoAnn)
Prayers and Support: 7/11/2009
My heart goes out to this family in the loss of their beautiful baby, Elle. It sickens me that people are so quick to judge. THIS FAMILY WILL HAVE ENOUGH PAIN TO LIVE WITH THE REST OF THEIR LIVES with out all the horrible things being posted on this site! I don't believe that HDN is monitoring this very well. For those of you who have never lost a child. U can't even come close to imagining the pain that you feel untill it happens to you. This family is greving and needs our prayers and support. Brian and Uela, I'm praying that god will comfort you with his strengh, peace, and hope. Praying for you.
(Posted by: Sommer)
Baby: 7/11/2009
Please stop critisizing the caregiver, They were to watch the baby not the parents.Tragedy by all means. people need to be more responsible. I believe some action needs to be taken on the courts part, like some one stated before, it would be a perfect excuse for some sicko out there to use for the abuse of a child, that way they could get away with murder. Think about it people there are copycats out there. I do feel for the parents, Ellie is in good hands now.
(Posted by: Sharon from Norton)
: 7/11/2009
This could happen to anyone When we think we are above making a mistake....God help us. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family of little Elle.
(Posted by: Cindy K)
Baby Elle: 7/11/2009
I am the mother of four wonderful children. My youngest is starting school this fall, and all I can think is that everytime we get into a vehicle I think about the fact that my kids are with me. All the what if's run through my head...accident, break down, etc. I think about them whether they are fighting with each other in the backseat or sleeping. That is my responsiblity as a parent. I am not saying these parents did not dote on their daughter at some point, but there is really no way to justify her being left in the car. I still think about my children multiple times throughout the day, even my teenager. For crying out loud, you should think about your children all day every day! They are the most wonderful blessing you could receive and deserve to at the very least be in your thoughts whether you are together or apart. The daycare provider is not at fault, many parents are inconsiderate and do not call when grandma "happens" to volunteer to watch a child. The provider is not responsible for a child that is not in her care, the parents are and they have proven they could not handle that responsibility. God Bless little Elle, you were an innocent by-stander that suffered in this. We need someone to set the precedence for "forgetting" your child in your car. This has happened many times when it is so hot or cold that a poor child cannot survive. When is someone going to be the example that says this is unacceptable? I pray Elle is at peace and that our law-makers seek to find a law that will enforce some responsibility in parents before this becomes an easy out for parents that decide they just "can't" take care of their child!
(Posted by: Momma Mel)
Baby Elle's death: 7/11/2009
God Bless the parents of this baby. I am from another state and this story was sent to me. I believe the parents are going to suffer for the rest of their lives. It sounds to me like there is a great deal of loving support for them. God Bless all of you who are understanding and praying for the family. When I think of how we raised our children, 50 years ago....I can think of a few times that I forgot or did something that could have caused one of them harm. Thank God they are all grown now and we have 2 more generations of children coming up behind them. I wonder why all the "big brother" laws come into being... Were we that bad about raising our kids? I think not, I don't have very many acquaintances who have lost children because they never watched them. It is undoubtedly USUALLY an accident. Some of the accidents were investigated way back then ,,,,,, and some were not accidents. Did we not teach our kids well enough that we don't need nearly as much big brother as we have been handed..... Like everyone's sex life being our business... It wasn't when it was Kennedy/ Monroe.... We need to quit blaming someone else and judging good people. Mind our own business and keep our records clean would be a great idea.. God is the judge!. God bless the family and help them at this time.
(Posted by: Old woman from Mo. )
To quick to judge: 7/11/2009
People are to quick to judge and when it comes the time for God to judge you, you will be the one to suffer from your poor choices. I did not know the family, but I do know that accidents happen. People get into their daily routines and other thoughts just seem to disappear. I had to take my little brother to school one day and as I pulled into the high school parking lot I looked back only to see him sitting in the back seat. He never said anything at all. Thank goodness I looked back, otherwise I would have forgotten about him. To those of you posting your harsh and cruel comments on this story. Shame on you. This family has enough grief from the loss of their child. Could you imagine them reading these comments? Could you say them to their faces? God will be the last one to judge.
(Posted by: aaaa)
Baby Elle: 7/11/2009
It was mistake that the parents will have to live with the rest of their lives. God will forgive them. Who are you to judge??? Please take this site down so the parents can't see all of the cruel remarks.
(Posted by: CD)
: 7/11/2009
To the person who commented about daycares being shut down: that is an absolutely ABSURD comparison to make. A daycare INTENTIONALLY restraining a child in a carseat and leaving them in a room for hours is totally different than what happened in this case. This was obviously an accident and they will punish themselves. It should be between them and God now, not society. I hope none of you who are so quick to judge ever have something tragic like this happen to you and if you do I hope that the community embraces you in your time of need instead of shunning you like you have done the Runnions during this horrible time in their lives.
(Posted by: have a heart)
God: 7/11/2009
Boy sure seems like we have alot of preachers or students of religious studies on this post. Maybe instead of pointing fingers at these two wonderful parents who had something happen to them I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy, we should take a good look at our own lives. I seem to remember a verse that states "Those of you without sin cast the first stone" It amazes me how many perfect people we have here. To the parent's. I cannot imagine the sorrow that is consuming you both, but as I know you both, and know you are both christian's, you know that Elly has gone to be with her eternal father, and someday when you reach your eternal reward you will see her again.
(Posted by: WA)
Negative: 7/11/2009
For those of you that are angry, it's ok to be. Anger is one of the emotions that goes along with loss. You need to find a way to get past the anger and stop being hurtful, hateful, and threatening to this family.
(Posted by: Worried)
Double Standard: 7/11/2009
A daycare provider leaving children in a carseat in a hot room is done intentionally. This was clearly UNintentional. Prayers go out to the family. God will help you through this tradegy. Have faith.
(Posted by: Saddened)
: 7/11/2009
To Double Standard, First of all I can't believe you would even think to compare this story to the childcare provider who strapped children in car seats to get them to sleep. These parents did not strap and leave this child in the car on "purpose" whereas the childcare provider strapped them in a car seat and left them there on "purpose". I am glad they shut her daycare down!!! She doesn't deserve to be running her own daycare and if I was informed that my child was strapped in a car seat to sleep at his daycare, that provider would be hearing from my attorney and facing a lot more than just her daycare being shut down. Some people have no heart. I hope the Runnion family turns to the Lord for peace and comfort during their time of sorrow. You will be in my thought and prayers.
(Posted by: H.D)
Baby Elle Runnion: 7/11/2009
Some of you are questioning "Does this person not check on their child during the day". Use some common sense people. IT IS OBVIOUSLY MADE PERFECTLY CLEAR. EACH OF THEM (mother & father), THOUGHT THE BABY WAS AT DAYCARE. Doesn't take brains to figure that one out.
(Posted by: )
Prayer for Runnion Family and Community: 7/11/2009
Heavenly Father, We thank you for this day and Lord on this day we surround the Runnion family as a community. Not a community of hate, but a community of supporting family and friends and loved ones. Lord, we cannot blame Brian and Eula, for they are wonderful people. Lord, we know now that as we go to church the reason we are to sit back and know why we are to have stillness in our lives and in our minds and hearts. We are to quiet ourselves from this "hell" we call society and societies whims. Lord, as we pray today and tomorrow in church that we can forgive and forget, but yet know that loving Elle is safely in your arms. Lord, we know that the days and nights ahead for Brian and Eulla will be long, but Lord we know that there are good people in the City of Hays that will rally around them with love and support. Help us to remember this day, that could have been my child or my niece or nephew. The neighbor child across the street, or a co-worker's son or daughter. Lord, its not only a loss for them but a great loss for our community. Help us to forgive this day and yet love in return. I ask your blessings on this family and Lord I ask you bless this community that we may be more Christ-like in the days and months ahead. In your precious name we pray...AMEN
(Posted by: Randy Conrad)
parents: 7/11/2009
God may have looked forward and saw something he didn't like in Elle's future and simply prevented it from happening to her and YOU. Hold tightly to each other. Do not let this or the ignorant comments on here or other places drive a wedge. God Bless you and help you through.
(Posted by: S.C.)
Elle: 7/11/2009
My prayers go out to the family. I'm so sorry that people are so nasty, as if the situation isn't hard enough. Accident's happen just like this everyday and the parents know what they have done with out any nasty comments from people. May God grant you peace in your heart Brian and Eula. I will be praying for you.
(Posted by: Avry)
baby Elle: 7/11/2009
First off, my heart goes out to this family on the loss of their child. I have to say, though, I think that HPD really turned a double standard on this case. When a daycare provider leaves children in car seats, unattended, in an 85 degree room for a number of hours parents are infuriated, the daycare is shut down, and the daycare provider is negligent but those kids lived. Yet a parent, of all people, leaves their child in a hot car for upwards of 8 hours she dies and its a "tragic accident"? How is that justified? Should daycare providers really be held to higher standards on child safety than that child's own parents? I cannot fathom how a parent could go that many hours without even thinking about their child and having it dawn on them that their child is still in the car. And to those of you who have posted that certain comments should be deleted because they are mean or nasty...you posted comments, too. Everyone is entitled to an opinion courtesy of the first amendment.
(Posted by: Double Standard?)
Infants Death: 7/10/2009
I would like to start by saying that my prayers are with the family of this poor child. I don't wish you any undue heartship overthis, I know Jesus is with you through this horrific incident. I can't call it an accident, did the father not go to lunch as some point? I will not judge you, it just sickens me that a parent could forget their child. 19 years ago I left my house and something stopped me on the porch, I couldn't move and something told me in my head to check on my 3 month old child. I went back in and he was in his crib blue, I caught him in the middle of a SIDS episode, my husband administered CPR and saved him until the EMT's arrived. As a parent, we have a responsibility to be complety tonned into our children. You will live with this the rest of your lives, my recommendation is to seek help immediately for both the mother and the father. Yes I do blame the father, do I wish you to be placed in a car in 104 degree weather? NO, find the good in the bad and make sure with this experience it doesn't happen to someone else, justify your daughters death and help others.
(Posted by: praying for you)
: 7/10/2009
I agree, these postings should be pulled off your site. Of course they won't because it's business right?....and you are gaining lots of hits off of this family's tragedy. If not I believe a campaign should be started to cancel your subscription to The Hays Daily News. I guarantee I will never subscribe to your paper again. The media has gone too far! Let's see if you post this.
(Posted by: friend of the family)
Get Serious: 7/10/2009
I am a CPS Investigator in another state, there is no excuse for this whatsoever. I feel the DA will have his hands tied as in my state, children who die in cars, the parents are "rarely" prosecuted because the law has to prove intent. Come parents, that life is your responsibility, so please, please take it seriously.
(Posted by: Super CPS Agent)
: 7/10/2009
If this man is guilty of anything but forgetfulness, then God will be his judge. If it was indeed a tragic accident then may God be with this family in the days and years ahead, it will not be an easy life. I will say a prayer for them even though I don't know them
(Posted by: Deb)
MERCY: 7/10/2009
May GOD have mercy on the soul of this father. We as a community should not! this tragedy could have been avoided by being a responable parent! nobody leaves their loved ones in a car for hours like that. NO ONE!! this is unthinkable let alone forgiveable. Time for the LAW to step up and do their jobs, the father needs to be charged. thes is neglect at the veary least, most of us as parents may even say man slaughter! my heart bleeds for the baby that suffered in that ungodly way.
(Posted by: )
mother of 4: 7/10/2009
Isn't "cooking your infant in a hot car" a little harsh? I have met these people. They are good people. I remember forgetting my child at school a couple of times and being called by the teacher. I wish the whole world could be full of "perfect people" like all you "judges" seem to think you are. This baby is in Heaven. Another tragedy is the way there are so many heartless people in our town when these people need support. I am so sorry for your loss, Brian & Eula.
(Posted by: Person with a heart )
agony: 7/10/2009
you all speak of the familys agony,- what about the infents agony? why did it take that long for this child to be discovered? do you realy mean to tell us that not one SINGLE indevidual saw this baby in the car? i DON'T buy it. we live in a world where everyone snoops in our business, someone saw her! minding your own business this time cost a child her life.
(Posted by: )
familyfriend: 7/10/2009
Your quick judgements and ridicule disgust me. It's a horror that you people are the neighbors, community members, friends, teachers, and co-workers that people think they can depend on in their biggest time of need. This family is now there...they need the love and support of their friends and community now more than ever, so if you have no intentions of supporting this mourning family, then keep your crude disgusting comments to yourself because you have NO RIGHT to judge this family. NO RIGHT AT ALL! No one has said that this isn't a terrible thing, but that gives you no right to start throwing around accusations and punishments for a family you know nothing about. This family just recieved the worst punishment they could ever recieve and you people just continue to bash and hate and judge. I hope your children are raised with more compassion and sense than what you all are showing now. May God grant this family the strength to move on and to not only grieve for their loss but celebrate the time they did have on this earth with precious little Elle.
(Posted by: Jill)
Mother of 4: 7/10/2009
You are a mean heartless idiot. "Cooking your infant in a hot car"? Isn't that a little uncalled for? I'm a mother. I remember forgetting to pick up my child from school once. Throw the first stone people..... or get over yourselves. If only the whole world could be the perfect people all you "judges" are.
(Posted by: )
Sweet Angel: 7/10/2009
The decent thing for HDnews should do is not allow comments to this story. How many of you know the entire thing that has happened here? If you did know you would be ashamed. HDnews did no justice to this tragedy. May this family feel our arms embrace them as they live through this horific nightmare.
(Posted by: someone with a heart)
Daycare: 7/10/2009
I read with interest the 'daycare provider' comments. I also ran daycare, actually had both of these parents in my daycare. As a daycare provider, if a child had not shown up within an hour of the time they were scheduled, I was calling to make sure everything was all right. Brian & Eula, my heart goes out to you. Having also lost a child, tho' he was grown, I feel your loss. I know how much you loved Elle, also. She will be missed by all of us. Love you!
(Posted by: Pam)
a Child's death: 7/10/2009
8 years ago one of my sons was accidently killed when his mother left the children in the car and it started to roll and when one of my boys got out to tell his mom he wqas run over and was killed just 2 days before christmas. did i blame his mother? yes i did but what good came of it..i forgave as you all should do for these poor parents. i still miss my son to this day and i'm sure they will miss their child forever too. god will not judge them harshly and you should not also. walk in my shoes before you put the blame on them and hope it does not happen to you
(Posted by: al engel)
how: 7/10/2009
Can you forget your baby?
(Posted by: anon)
Prayers: 7/10/2009
Prayers are what this family needs at this time. We should not be quick to judge. God is watching you. My deep prayers go out to all the family. God Bless
(Posted by: Charlene)
set the bar: 7/10/2009
I am not formally familiar with the law but i do know that neglecting a child is against the law. I am a mother i watched over 60 children in my daycare over the course of my 13 years in child care and i never forgot a child. There will be a presidence set here with the out come. If 'forgetting the baby' is allowed, watch out society! Daycare providers... rest easy, you can forget a child here or there. Teachers when you take our children on field trips you can 'forget' to see that my little billy is on the bus. As long as you legitimately 'forgot' it's no big deal. I know this is a tragedy, absolutely!!! but it is still against the law and just like any other crime charges should be filed. I would have expected no less had i left my child in a car or any of you Hays parents who trusted me with your child. You trusted me not to forget them. Do not lower the standard of expectation. I am not judging, it is the law not to 'forget our babies'
(Posted by: MCM)
: 7/10/2009
I feel so sorry for that poor man and the grief he must be suffering. I'm sure his wife may forgive but never forget . Lets all say a prayer for the family and that innocent baby. May God give them the strength and courage to remain together as husband and wife .
(Posted by: )
Elle: 7/10/2009
I feel only remorse for this poor child. I have a son that is only a few months older then she was. How any person could forget about the most precious thing that God could give is beyond me. I hope and pray that justice will be done. Elle you will be missed dearly you little Angel
(Posted by: to Elle)
praying: 7/10/2009
So all of you people criticizing this family....What about the children that drowned in their own pool in their own back yard? What about kids that get ran over by family in their own yard. What about parents that don't buckle their kids up and have a crash??? Accidents??? YES, just like this family ACCIDENTLY left the baby in the car! I think think losing your child is punishment enough!!
(Posted by: praying)
infants death: 7/10/2009
It looks like the editors are screening the posts which is probably a good thing. My first post did not make it here. What if the babysitter had left this little innocent child in the car? What if a parent 'forgets' their little baby in some shopping cart in a parking lot? Would all of you be so quick to write this off as an 'accident'? I hurt for the parents, aunts, uncles, everyone involved. There is no doubt this is not a huge tragedy. God entrusted you as a parent NOT to 'forget' the life you created. Ask yourselfes 'is it okay for your babysitter to forget your baby tomorrow morning?' I am betting that this post gets screened because it hits too close to home.
(Posted by: mother in hays too)
for those who say delete the harsh comment, : 7/10/2009
we have a right to an opinion, it doesn't matter who left the baby in the car, yes they'll have to live with it but its still neglect, accident or not, charges should be brought
(Posted by: Hays)
Really excuses being made here: 7/10/2009
I feel for there lose but if i accidentally ran over someone i would still be charges, this is neglect , it doesn't matter the excuse, they should be charges. If a person has a child they should be responsible. Parents make a lot of mistakes but this one is unacceptable !!
(Posted by: .......)
Runnion's Loss: 7/10/2009
Please stop blaming the parents! Yes, it was horrible, yes..we can't believe that it happened, but I know this family and NEVER did you see parents who doted on their daughter as much as they did! It was a ACCIDENT! A change in the normal routine. We can ask "why this" and "why that" but in the end this family...these parents have lost a vital part of their hearts! This is something they have to live with and bashing them doesn't make it any better! Elle was a beautiful child and she will always be dearly missed; so instead of calling for blood and crying for an "eye for an eye;" why not try some understanding and compassion? You can always say that you'd never do this or this would never happen to your family but until does...and I pray none of you hateful people out there ever have this happen...you will never know the true devastation and loss that this family is feeling right now! God Bless You Eula, Brian, and Elle!
(Posted by: Naomi Carter)
Sickened: 7/10/2009
We are a community, we are friends, we are co workers, we are brothers and sisters, we are HUMAN BEINGS that by nature should have compassion. My heart is heavy today for this baby and her entire family. But God's grace will heal and prayers will be answered. Throw stones naysayers, may God forgive you. I will keep my thoughts positive for this family and not dwell on my anger towards hateful people, for I AM NOT THEIR JUDGE. Amen
(Posted by: Carrie)
: 7/10/2009
I feel really bad for the parents of this infant. As for all the EMS workers and HPD I hope you all are doing okay as well. This has got to be hard for you all as well. I know I couldn't do your job and THANK YOU for all you do for Ellis County. For people who don't know how this could happen it was a tragic accident that can happen and does. I just pray you never have to go through a tragic in your family. Give these parents a break and just pray for them.
(Posted by: No Name)
infants death: 7/10/2009
Tragic accident most definately. But to all who dislike the comments being made, remember that they have a right to voice their opinions. Do not kid yourself in believing that you wouldn't hear those same comments from people in your surrounding community and possibly family or friends.
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
To all those who want comments taken off of this site, we have just as much right to voice our opinion as you do. Freedom of speech. Too bad that little girl will never have any freedoms because of her irresponsible parents!
(Posted by: Very Angry)
7/10/09: 7/10/2009
Yes the parents are suffering, but think of how much the infant suffered in the heat. The parents may be good parents, but it is still neglect to leave an infant in a car all day.
(Posted by: former resident of Hays)
spilling milk: 7/10/2009
The focus here is not who is to blame, that is obvious. Calling this an accident is silly as well. Spilling milk is an accident, backing over the flowers at the end of the drive way is an accident. Parents are given lives that we are explicitly responsible for and no matter what our 'crazy' schedules look like or how busy our lives get THESE CHILDREN ARE OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO REMEMBER!!! God is really really busy but he makes time to care for each and every one of us. I am a mother, ran a daycare for 13 years. I know the family is hurting but this is still neglect. That baby was in the car for HOW many hours? Like it or not, this is a crime and I would expect the law to punish me if I did this. Forgetting to pay your bill after a meal will get you arrested, forgetting to pay your taxes is a crime. How is forgetting to take your child out of a car NOT a crime?
(Posted by: mother as well)
May God Grant You Peace: 7/10/2009
God bless you and angel baby Elle. This could have happened to any one of us. Those who argue that have simply forgotten that we are human and we make mistakes...even tragic ones. This community is grieving with and for you, and we pray that God will grant you peace. You are not alone and we do not judge you.
(Posted by: A parent)
Judgement: 7/10/2009
Someone on here posted that they hope the courts punish who ever was responsible for the infants death. I am a parent, and can not imagine losing my child. I do know if a tragedy like this would happen to me, no punishment the courts could hand me would come close to the living hell I would be putting myself thru. My hearts go out to the family. Accidents happen, and I don't know one person who can say they have never had an accident of some kind or another. Maybe your accident didn't cause harm, but what if it would have, would you want others to be so quick to blame and point fingers??? Think before you speak, this is a grieving family you are commenting about. I hope you never have to experience this kind of tragedy. I am praying for the family and hope everyone else can find it in their hearts to do the same.
(Posted by: Medical Professional)
Innapropriate!!!: 7/10/2009
Hays Daily News be considerate of the family and take the rude, hateful comments off!!! You are doing nothing to stop the cruel things being said about this family! It clearly states that "All comments are subject to approaval before being posted. ect." Please do the right thing and have respect for the loved ones and protect their hearts!!! I am thinking of you both, you are wonderful people! My thoughts and prayers are with you! May God bless and heal you in your time of need!!
(Posted by: )
Elle: 7/10/2009
There seem to be more supporters than haters on these posts, so there is that to be thankful for. No one will be harder on Eula and Brian than themselves...for the rest of their lives. As for why didn't this or that happen, nothing will bring Elle back. None of it did happen, and we've lost our cousin, niece, granddaughter, great granddaughter, daughter, and our friend. These are wonderful and caring parents who made a mistake. Unfortunately, their mistake was fatal, unlike the mistakes most of us make. The rest of us should be thankful that our mistakes went without harm to anyone. We should also try to untangle the web of ignorance and hate.
(Posted by: Amber, Elle's cousin)
some need to leave thier comments to themselves: 7/10/2009
so sorry to hear about your loss, accidents happen, there was a reason for this, the are not bad parent, u rude people with your comments should quit being so inconseradate and worry about your own lives!!! may God be with the little girl and their family at this time
(Posted by: ..........)
Love: 7/10/2009
May God have you in His arms during this time. My heart goes out to you.
(Posted by: Lou)
Infant death: 7/10/2009
My prayer and support are with this family during this Tragic time.. God Bless
(Posted by: Gail Gardner)
: 7/10/2009
This is awful.........My heart goes out to the mother and father..........May you find peace with God!!!
(Posted by: Ellis res.)
Sweet Elle: 7/10/2009
This family loved their child very much. Things like this unfortunately happen and it was definitely not intentional. For those of you who are blaming and making rude remarks...remember that things you so now may haunt you later. Right now just support and pray for this family. They have already been through enough and don't need any one's negative and rude comments. RIP Elle!
(Posted by: A Friend)
: 7/10/2009
These parents are the nicest people anyone could ever meet. They would NEVER EVER hurt someone on purpose. This is a tragic accident that happened and people to need to leave the family alone. Imagine if you lost a kid would you want people bashing on you? NOOO..so don't be so quick to judge unless you know the parents and went through the situation you do not know. No one is perfect..God doesn't judge you so don't judge others ESPECIALLY when you don't know them or their situation. My heart goes out to the family and friends of the loved one. May God be with you all through this difficult time!!
(Posted by: )
I've been there.: 7/10/2009
To the parents of Elle: I'm so sorry for your tragic loss. While so many are quick to judge, I am not because I too have accidentally left my baby in the car. I however, was fortunate enough to realize what I had done within 100 yards of the vehicle. It was the same kind of situation, just not the normal routine. I still think about that night frequently and what could have happened. My heart goes out to your family during this difficult time. God bless you.
(Posted by: Tracey)
: 7/10/2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Come on HDN can you not see all the rude and hateful comments on here?? They should be deleted right away. The family is grieving enough without having people down grade them.
(Posted by: Hays Resident)
So Sorry: 7/10/2009
This was a very tragic accident and my heart goes out to these parents who are having to deal with the loss of their precious baby. I think it is atrocious that people are so quick to pass judgement. This couple is a valuable member of our community. We should come together to support them in their time of need instead of casting stones. The parents have a rough enough road ahead of them without having to deal with people's ignorant and unsupportive comments. Please keep them in your prayers...I know I sure will.
(Posted by: :()
: 7/10/2009
Don't know that anyone needs to comment on this story. It is sad enough for the family to have to go through this without all the finger pointing. If anyone of you has gone through this life without making some kind of mistake then you must be saints.
(Posted by: )
3 months old death: 7/10/2009
Keep in mind that only god can judge and shame on you for not even knowing the parents or the entire situation for you to even think to negatively comment. This is very tragic story and lets just pretend like it was you and you actually did unintentionally leave your baby in the car. How horrible would you feel? Do you think these parents need to hear about it from a complete stranger? Have a heart. I am the mother of 3 children. I had my youngest last year and it was harder to get adjusted to a new baby although I already have 2. Don't criticize others actually mind your own business and if you don't have anything pleasant to say then do not say anything at all. God Bless this family and their beloved baby now resting eternally in heaven.
(Posted by: Jessica Hernandez )
Poor Baby Girl!: 7/10/2009
This defenseless child deserves a Guardian to defend her in court. The parents and/or the person that neglected this child need to stand accountable in a court of law. How pathetic to call it an accident! How pathetic to defend their cause, or lack there of!
(Posted by: Concerned mother)
Prayers for them: 7/10/2009
I have just been sick since hearing about this. I grieve for the mother and the father. He will have to live with this the rest of his life and my prayers are with him. My Jesus be with them in this horrible time.
(Posted by: Grieving for family)
tragedy...: 7/10/2009
By reading the rest of these comments, I only hope and pray that the family of this child does not even care to read what some others are saying. My heart goes out to you. It is such a terrible tragedy and I can't even imagine how terrible it feels right now. Please hold on to one another and hold on to God. I will keep you and all of your family in my prayers.
(Posted by: anon.)
Count'em Up: 7/10/2009
I left one of the first comments on this tragic accident. I am extremely proud of the kindness and thoughts that are being offered to this family. Of course there are always some individuals that don't understand and will only judge first. The heart felt comments heavly out weight the ignorant ones. This is the kind of support that is needed for this family... keep'em coming. Hearts Thoughts & Prays for You & Yours
(Posted by: Sparky)
My thoughts and Prayers are with this family: 7/10/2009
My heart goes out to the little girl's family during this difficult time - I cannot imagine the pain and suffering that they are going through. I do not know you, but I'm grieving with you. May God comfort you, and may you know that you are being prayed for. May God help heal your hearts, and may the support and caring you receive help ease your pain. God holds your daughter in his arms....I'm so sorry for your tragic loss!!!
(Posted by: May Angels Wings sheild you from judgment: God bless you)
baby: 7/10/2009
First of all my thoughts and prayers go out to the parents and eveyone that loved her. Now, to all the people (po parent) that are bashing the parents that lost their child, you should be ashamed of yourselves, I wish i could be as perfect as all of you. These parents are going through enough right now, and they dont need your criticizing. To the po parent my thoughts and prayers also go out to you, cause anyone who wishes death on another person needs alot of help. Again to the parents i am sorry for your loss. God Bless you.
(Posted by: Chris Plante)
precious baby girl: 7/10/2009
If you guys don't have anything nice to say, than keep your comments to yourself. The family has enough on their minds without people being so quick to judge. How would you like it if it was your child. I think there are a lot of people that have a lot of growing up to do. We need to pray for the family for peace and comfort. Support is what they need right now. Not the rude and uncalled for comments. I was on the kwch.com website and I just started crying about the comments posted there too. I have kids and can't help but think what if this was us? I think that both the hays daily news website and especially the kwch website need to take the comment boxes away from this story. Most of the comments, especially on kwch are just uncalled for. HORRIFIC if you ask me. Please pray for Brian and Eula. They need us to all come together as a community for support. That's what we should all be there for...love and support for their families. This could have happened to anyone of us and that's what we would all want right? Not the negativity.
(Posted by: GOD BLESS LITTLE ELLE)
A time for Grieving: 7/10/2009
Dear Readers, This is a difficult time for all those involved and our community. During tragedy and grief, we often fluctuate between anger, grief, confusion, blame, and just plain heart break. This baby was loved very much loved by her mother and father. This was nothing more than a tragic accident and heart crushing experience. This family and co-workers are devastated (of which I am one). Please keep this baby and her parents in your prayers. God's Grace is big enough to heal even big events like this one.
(Posted by: Chaplain Joel)
remove these posts: 7/10/2009
Hays Daily please remove the posts that are rude abusive and slanderous. What is being said may be opinions but they are being found offensive, compley with your terms and delete the violaters.
(Posted by: )
ACCIDENT???: 7/10/2009
Does this person not check on their child during the day. How could it have been an accident? My heart goes out to the family, but the parents were neglectful. I would think if this act was considered a crime, instead of an accident then maybe it wouldn't happen so often. An accident is forgeting to put on a seatbelt. Cooking your infant in a hot car is NOT!
(Posted by: Mother of 4)
Rude Comments: 7/10/2009
What amazes me is that all you people that feel you need to judge can't seem to put your names in of who you are - is it that you can open your FAT MOUTHS and say your VICIOUS crap because you feel secure in being hidden behind the computer....or is it that there may be something in your past to judge you on - have heart the family is going thru enough pain and suffering right now - keep your RUDE DIRTY comments to yourselves - and get a life!
(Posted by: Linda Smith)
Baby: 7/10/2009
My heart and prayers go out to this baby and the family. I believe that God has plans for everyone, and everyone's day is marked. Whether it be 3 months old, 3 years, 50 years, 80 years, etc. We are all put on earth for a reason, season or lifetime, so lets not judge people. Let's pray that this family will hold together through the rough times. God bless...
(Posted by: Lost for words)
Infant dies is car: 7/10/2009
I am the mother of 3 children, all grown up now. Never, ever, ever did I intentionally or ACCIDENTLY leave my kids in the car. I don't believe this was an accident and if it was, then these people didn't deserve to have the precious little child to begin with. How could a person accidently leave a child in a car for that long? Leave your purse or a sack of groceries, but a child? Come on!
(Posted by: mother of 3)
HDN: 7/10/2009
as many posts are on here and many are rude and threatening and abusive to the family how is HDN allowing these?!??!pretty sure below the submit comment button there is a statement that all comments are subject to approval before being posted and that they shouldn't be rude threatening or abusive!!!! HDN do something about these comments because some of these are very hurtful to the family. Baby and family in prayers!
(Posted by: momtobe)
sorry: 7/10/2009
I'm sorry for those who want to say dark hurtful things during a time of emotional chaos for the parents of this little child. This is not the first time something like this has happened and it won't be the last. I have a friend who went through this same exact thing. I don't have the words to say to you except for sorry. I hope you cling to Jesus through all of this. He will give you strength and love you the whole way through! God bless you.
(Posted by: Sherri)
4 yr old death: 7/10/2009
Lets jump back one week ago about the 4yr old that will killed in Colby because of a "tragic preventable accident." I just looked back at that HDN article & NO ONE posted anything on it. Same story different day a child is dead - Don't judge one but not the other. Please from a mother that has an baby angel in heaven pray for this family. They will live with this for the rest of their life.
(Posted by: Mother of an Angel)
: 7/10/2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to this wonderful family during their time of sorrow. And as for the Hays Daily News allowing all of these cruel comments to be posted...it states at the bottom that comments that are rude, abusive, slanderous, etc. will not be tolerated; some of these comments are along those lines and shouldn't have been posted. The family of this precious child have enough to go through without knowing that comments like this are being posted for all to read.
(Posted by: Hays Resident)
???: 7/10/2009
Didn't the day care provider wonder why the child hadn't been dropped off and call to see what was going on? Apparently not.
(Posted by: )
Baby's Death: 7/10/2009
This is one of the most tragic things that could happen to a family...the loss of a child. Judge not least ye be judged. It is very upsetting,yes, but we are all human, God made us this way. Stop and put yourself in the family's place today, deal with the loss of your child. Prayers and thoughts go out to all of you and to the family. Where is the compassion in the world!
(Posted by: mother)
God DID NOT need another angel!!!!!: 7/10/2009
This is to "An Angel In Heaven". People are not angels. God does not need another angel and God did not take that baby. God gives us a free will and sometimes our free will has tragic consequences! It does not help the family to tell them that God took their baby! The Bible says Satan comes to kill, steal and destroy and that Jesus comes that we might have abundant life. This tragedy is not abundant life! It was a horrible accident. Not God's will. Just pray for the family people. The old cliches that aren't even true do not help. Well meaning or not!
(Posted by: Jessica)
: 7/10/2009
I do not know these parents, but I am truly very sorry for their tragic loss. I am a new mother and I could not image losing my baby boy. Please pray for this family in this horrible time. They are in my thoughts and prayers.
(Posted by: )
Hateful Comments: 7/10/2009
For PO Parent, to see that you are a hateful person that can spew the kind of venom in your words is a tragedy also. I feel sooooooo sorry for your children if it is okay with you to think, speak, judge in that way. Your comments about cussing and "getting ahold of this mother" and not feeling bad if someone died in the heat are hateful and terrible examples for whoever you parent. You should be ashamed of yourself for being so judgemental and full of hate. That kind of behavior does your children no benefit. You don't even know the facts of this story. To the rest of the judgemental posters, I love how so many judge and then also speak of God. That is a total contradiction, God did not put you here to judge, but to love and treat others the way you would expect to be treated. Think that through before you comment negatively about this family and their pain and suffering and then say that you are praying for the baby, the family, etc....God judges everyone, not just these parents. What an unfortunate, terrible tragedy for this family.
(Posted by: disappointed in judgemental comments)
judgemental : 7/10/2009
There is only One who can judge.
(Posted by: )
Fred: 7/10/2009
They left a 3 month in the car for that long of time and did not miss it. It was not an accident, it was stupidity and they better be charged.
(Posted by: Fred)
Should never be said!!!: 7/10/2009
You people are horrible!!!!!Sick and disgusting for being so inconsiderate at a time of sadness and grief.Shame on you!!
(Posted by: stranger)
: 7/10/2009
Those of you that are that are making these ridiculous comments, now that is ignorance. You don't know the family or the details of what happened, so why are you judging them. Look at your postings and then think of who the ignorant one is. No matter the situation, how can you not have some type of empathy or compassion for the family. Knowing the couple, they are very sweet and loving and you should really think twice before posting such ridiculous comments. My heart goes out to the couple. This is such a tragedy.
(Posted by: unknown)
Happened before...: 7/10/2009
Unfortunately, the nearly indentical accident to this has happened before across the country in which the rountine is changed on day (the father taking the baby to daycare instead of the mother) and the mother puts the baby in Dad's car and Dad goes off to work, gets distracted, forgets to drop the baby off at daycare and goes straight to work instead leaving the baby still in the car parked in the parking lot all day. Unfortunately, it is not that uncommon nationally. Do a Google search and you will find mutiple incidents exactly like this. That doesn't excuse it or absolve the father from responsibility (if I "forget" to put my car in park and it rolls down my driveway and runs over somebody killing them I am still responsible). But hopefully something good can come of this tragic death in that it can serve as a stark reminder to all of us to be extra careful anytime we change up our rountines because that is the most likely time something like this will happen.
(Posted by: Not that uncommon)
BLESSINGS TO YOU!!: 7/10/2009
May you find strength in the days ahead. I am so sorry to hear about your tragedy. You had such a short time together with your angel. Sending many prayers to you.
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
i just dont understand how anyone could forget to take there baby out of a car.
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
HDNEWS...this comment section needs to be stopped immediately for the sake of the family. Now is not the time to decide the difference between right and wrong it is a time to come together for the family
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
This is for the person who wrote they have lived in Hays for two years and have never seen so many ignorant people. You know where the door is! This is a time for people to come together and morn for this poor family and have some kind of compassion which obviously you don't. it is very hard to understand what happened and we can all judge why they did not do this or that but the fact still remains this family lost a little daughter and I am sure they will pay for it the rest of their lives.
(Posted by: )
prayers: 7/10/2009
My thoughts and prayers are with this family at their time of need. Their little angel is now in heaven after having spent only a little time with them. May God Bless this family and all of you...even the ones who are being so cruel. by the way...you 'cruel' people should really STOP calling this sweet little baby girl and "it". Talk about ignorance....there you have it right there. God Bless this little one.
(Posted by: nonjudgement)
Such a Loss: 7/10/2009
First off, to those of you who are so quick to judge, you should really keep your comments to yourself. Think about if you were in their situation. You probably don't even know half the story of what happened yesterday to these two very lovely people. I myself, have known both the mother and father my whole life. I grew up as a child back in a small town, being a neighbor to the father and his family. I was in 4-H with both of these parents. The mother is a sweet, sweet lady just as well as the father is a very caring, protective individual. Neither of them would ever neglect their child. Before you say hurtful comments to or about either one of these individuals, you should stop and think about what they are going through and what may have happened that day since you apparently don't know the story. You should feel absolutely terrible for your rude, horrible comments and it will come back on you. Watching this sweet, oh so happy baby a few times this summer with my cousin I can't even BEGIN to state how I feel and how sorry I am to both the mother and father. I hope you two will be able to turn to god, your families, and the ones who love and care about you in your time of need. My family has already been and will always be here for you two in this time. We love you and care about you more than you know. You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers.
(Posted by: familyfriend)
life: 7/10/2009
Accidents do happens every second of everyday, they are not caused, the man that lost his son on the tracto accident last week I could name 10 in th elast month. How dare you people make comments that are so hateful, and jusdgmental. that is the problem with our society. Open mouth before they know the real truth. You know you could save your self and others if we all did no assume things. It hurts and it is wrong. Find out the facts, and do not pass judement on things you know nothing about. These parnets have enough on ther plate with out hearing these kinds of commements. And maybe if you would pray and have a litlle faith you would not make dumb commements like that. To the family may god belss you and give yopu faith to caring on. We are all praying for you and your family
(Posted by: Michelle)
Such a Tragedy: 7/10/2009
To those of you who are so quick to judge the parents in this situation, you are TERRIBLE! I, myself, know both the mother and the father pretty well. I lived my childhood growing up as a neighbor to the father in a small, small town. I know the mother and have spent time with her. She is a sweet, sweet lady as well as the father is a very caring father and a great individual. Without being a part of their lives, how could you ever judge who they are as parents? Being around them and their baby, I know how protective they were of her. She was such a happy baby, who had very caring parents. Watching this little girl with my cousin a few days this summer, it's a sad thing to hear about and her parents are grieving terribly. Before you make these rude comments and wish these absolutely HORRIBLE things on them, think about how you would feel in their situation. Neither of these parents should have anything wished upon them so horrible. You should send out your thoughts and prayers and stop being so quick to judge. To the parents, we love you guys and keep in mind that me and my family have been and will always be here for you!
(Posted by: familyfriend)
: 7/10/2009
i can't believe someone could forget about their child in their car. its a sad trgic story but someone needs to be accountable. the child has no voice. and apparently had noone to look out for them
(Posted by: shocked)
: 7/10/2009
Safety Tips from KIDS AND CARS * Never leave children alone in or around cars; not even for a minute. * Put something you'll need like your cell phone, handbag, a KIDS AND CARS sunshade, lunch or brief case, etc., on the floor board in the back seat. Get in the habit of always opening the back door of your vehicle every time you reach your destination to make sure no child has been left behind. This will soon become a habit. We call this the "look then lock campaign" * Keep a large teddy bear in the child's car seat when it's not occupied. When the child is placed in the seat, put the teddy bear in the front passenger seat. It's a visual reminder that anytime the teddy bear is up front you know the child is in the back seat in a child safety seat. * Use drive-thru services when available. (restaurants, banks, pharmacies, dry cleaners, etc.) * If you see a child alone in a vehicle, get involved. If they are hot or seem sick, get them out as quickly as possible. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. * Keep vehicles locked at all times; even in the garage or driveway and always set your parking brake. * Keys and/or remote openers should never be left within reach of children. * Make sure all child passengers have left the vehicle after it is parked. * Be especially careful about keeping children safe in and around cars during busy times, schedule changes and periods of crisis or holidays. * When a child is missing, check vehicles and car trunks immediately. * Use your debit or credit card to pay for gas at the pump. * Make arrangements with your child's day care center or babysitter that you will always call them if your child will not be there on a particular day as scheduled. This is common courtesy and sets a good example that everyone who is involved in the care of your child is informed of their whereabouts on a daily basis. Ask them to phone you if your child doesn't show up when expected. Many children's lives could have been saved with a telephone call from a concerned child care provider. Give child care providers all your telephone numbers, including that of an extra family member or friend, so they can always confirm the whereabouts of your child.
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
I agree with a previous poster that all comments should be stopped. That being said, I found this link on another website, and think it is a fantastic article on the subject. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/27/AR2009022701549.html?sid=ST2009030602446 For those of you who know the family, please support them in this terrible time. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain this family is facing.
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
Our prayers go out to the parents and this horrible time.. I can not imagine their grief. To those who post such negative hurtful comments... would you be so quick to comment if you had to post your full name?
(Posted by: Only God Can Judge Me)
: 7/10/2009
Accidents don't just happen, there caused! I guess praying is ok, if it makes "YOU" feel better!
(Posted by: X)
: 7/10/2009
My prayers go out to the family.
(Posted by: )
I agree: 7/10/2009
I cannot imagine what this man must be going through. My heart goes out to the parents in this very, very, very difficult time. Please readers, don't make this harder on him/them than it already is. This was an honest mistake that this man is going to have to live with for the rest of his life. Please, please don't judge him until you know the details. I've never met these people, yet I sit here with tears for all of them. May God be with them.
(Posted by: )
God Bless the Family: 7/10/2009
To all of you who have posted positive comments, thank you. I know this father personally, very personally and he would never do anything intentional to hurt any living being especially his own child. To those of you who have posted negative comments may God forgive you and your ignorance. May nothing like this ever happen to you because if it does I bet for damn sure you would be asking for forgiveness and trying to find a way to deal with the tragedy. SOme of you have said we are all to busy with busyness, maybe some of you are too damn busy posting comments that don't belong here and should never be thought of much less posted here. I pray for you, because you will pay for this in your next life and maybe even this one. Love and kind words will bring these parents through this. I pray for them and want them to know that there are many, many people that care for them and their child. If any of you feel you have the right to judge then I pray you are never in a position of running our city, state, or country. God help us all then because you can't even make a good judgement here. Love and prayers to the family. We do care and love you.
(Posted by: One caring father to another.)
God's love for us all: 7/10/2009
My heart and prayers go out for you. May God bless you and keep you in His tender mercy. I also pray for all who are so moved by a tragedy who extend a hand, out of love and compassion, to the parents. I also pray for those who are so moved and who are so confused that they may respond inappropriately. It is a good time to reflect on Jesus’ torture and dying on the cross, to atone for our sins and weaknesses. As through an example, also show us that such pain and suffering here on earth pails to the glory and joy of being with God.
(Posted by: Mike Werth)
Lost ones...y does God do it...?: 7/10/2009
Well I myself do not know this family or what is going on in their lives, I am too young to understand half of what goes on anymore in our world. But I do know that accidents happen. I lost my youngest brother in an accident around harvest last year, and people all around me kept saying all these "help make you feel better things" like "We are so sorry for you loss..." and a lot of other things. But it doesn't really help, you just need to be there to comfort them and offer encouragement of a brand new day tomorrow. Be with them when they need you the most. And most of all, pray for them, because with God, everything will be alrite.
(Posted by: teenager)
baby: 7/10/2009
I know this couple personaly, it was terrible accident, I dont understand how some of you people can quickly judge like and say they are horrible parents, instead of pointing fingers maybe you should just sit down and say some prayers for the baby... have a heart for once people!
(Posted by: )
LITTLE ANGEL: 7/10/2009
dont judge. God chooses when our time is up. Bless this family.
(Posted by: )
baby's death: 7/10/2009
This is so hard for that family to go through. If only he didn't change his routine that day this may have never happened. Pray for them to get through this instead of judging them and making such inappropriate comments.
(Posted by: )
My prayers are with you: 7/10/2009
Don't listen to the previous comments. Your baby is with Jesus he'll take really good care of him. Know that while a lot of people chose to judge there is only one who can really judge. My prayers along with my family are with you and your baby. I know rough times are ahead of you but stay strong and pray.
(Posted by: )
infant: 7/10/2009
While my heart certainly goes out to this child's family for this tragic loss, maybe we should all take this tragedy and turn it on ourselves in retrospection. Are you so busy that you might be at risk of this happening to you? I think we as Americans are obsessed with "busyness". After school activities, church activities, sports activities, you name it - we overload our schedules every day and wish there were more than 24 hours in a day. While I am neither condemning or excusing this person for what happened, parents have an innate responsibility to their children to always be vigilant of their health and well-being. Please consider taking time out of your busy schedule and use it to honor this family and their loss - spend time with your kids, your nieces, nephews, grandkids, whatever child is precious in your life.
(Posted by: momof2boyz)
: 7/10/2009
This is such a terrible situation, only made worse by other's negative comments towards the parents. I use to be one of those people who never understood how a parent could forget their child in the car. I use to criticize and say, "That could never happen to me." One day my three year old daughter and I were driving home from visiting family. My daughter had fallen asleep in the backseat. My mind started to wander and think about things that I needed to get done that week. All of a sudden I felt a kicking on my backseat. I had completely forgotten that my daughter was in the car with me. I couldn't believe that even for just a short period of time, I could forget my own child sitting in the backseat! Accidents happen....criticizing and accusing the parents aren't going to benefit anyone. These parents need prayers. I can't imagine how they must be feeling.
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
does this section really need a comment box????
(Posted by: )
so sad!: 7/10/2009
So sad that life is so busy even in Hays Kansas! It makes me stop and realize that I and everyone else should slow down! I just want to cry. My heart goes out to the family as I will be a grandmother soon. And shame on you people judging! They are going through enough right now.
(Posted by: )
Pray for the family: 7/10/2009
This does happen by complete accident. I've known people who dropped other kids off at school and then gone to work and realized the baby (who was completely quiet) was still in the car! A Dr. where I used to live left his infant in the car when he went to work - a complete accident. Hard to believe it could happen, but it does. Absolute tragedy.
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
Our hearts and prayers go out to you. You are both wonderful people and you will get through this. We love you
(Posted by: Spresser/Breon)
WOW: 7/10/2009
Our society is just amazing these days. Here we have irresponsible parents that leave a child in a hot car ALL day and the child dies and we are all supoosed to feel sorry for the parents!? What about the child who died? There is no accountability anymore and it makes me sick. There is not doubt that the parents are full of guilt, but they should be! Their own actions lead to the death of their own child! Thinking like this has allowed us to legalize things like abortion. Get real people
(Posted by: Disappointed)
: 7/10/2009
i will pray for the family. for they indeed need our prayers. but for any person that is so busy or consumed in their daily life to actually be able to leave their tiny infant in their hot car and not remember them, they need the most prayers because they never should have a baby that could be so easily forgotten. This type of tragedy does happen quite often but it doesnt make it more understable or justified.
(Posted by: )
please delete comments: 7/10/2009
HDN staff.......please do not allow further comments on this. Its terrible for others to have to read the harsh judgements. Let the family be.
(Posted by: concerned and praying)
: 7/10/2009
It wasn't the mothers fault...so stop blaming her!!!!!!!
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
I personally know the mother and she is not that type of person! My heart goes out to the family it is such a tragedy. For thos of you so quick to judge you should be ashamed of yourself...these parents are going thru enough with out people like you adding pain!!
(Posted by: )
Prayers: 7/10/2009
This family does not need anyone's condemnation but instead they need your prayers. They are going through something really terrible. It was not done on purpose as no one would do that. It was a mistake which could happen to anyone. My prayers go to this family that must be really struggling right now. They had such a short time with their little one. God Bless.
(Posted by: not one to judge)
An Angel in Heaven: 7/10/2009
This was God's doing, not the parents. He was ready for another angel and he wanted that special little baby and it didn't matter how he got his angel that day. I agree with everyone...you have no idea what those parents are going through until you have walked a mile in their shoes. The ones who are pointing fingers are the ones who have faults of their own. God has forgiven this family, so should you. Prayers go out to everyone who has lost a child.
(Posted by: A understanding and loving parent)
tragedy: 7/10/2009
such a tragedy. an infant that young, new routine, exhausted parents, ....such a tragedy and so common it hurts..pray for them do not damn them.
(Posted by: )
baby: 7/10/2009
Don't be so quick to judge. We get ourselves into such a routine and we just need to slow down. It could happen to anyone and I can't imagine what this family is going through. My heart goes out to this family. God bless
(Posted by: )
Tragedy: 7/10/2009
I am so sorry that this family's world has become darker due to unintentional neglect. My heart goes out to the parents. What a terrible cross to bear for the rest of your lives. Judge not, lest you be judged.
(Posted by: GeoDrive)
: 7/10/2009
I've lived in Hays for two years. I have never lived in a town with so many ignorant uneducated people. Whoever is at fault should be punished. Just like the earlier posters...it's not a bag of groceries.
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
My heart goes out to you and your family. People let us not be harsh on another that is already hurting and hating himself/herself. We are not the Judge and Jury - therefore keep your rude comments to yourself
(Posted by: Sorry that people are RUDE!)
: 7/10/2009
I don't understand how you don't know where your child is. Leaving a baby in a car on a sweltering hot summer day is not a "simple slip of the mind". How do you 'forget' your baby? This child died... is gone... has its life taken because of the negligence of an adult. Whether its the parents or another caretaker responsible for leaving that child in the car, I hope our courts will stand up and deliver proper justice.
(Posted by: )
Poor Baby!: 7/10/2009
How awful! This poor baby suffered horribly before it died. How on earth can a parent "forget" about the baby. You hear of these stories from time to time and I just don't get it. I'm a mother too and it just doesn't make sense. May this precious baby rest in peace.
(Posted by: a mom of 2)
: 7/10/2009
We are too quick to judge and it could of happened to anyone. We often get ourselves in such a routine and we just need to slow down. My heart goes out to this family. It is such an unfortunate accident
(Posted by: )
I feel sorry for the P.O parent: 7/10/2009
You should really get your facts straight before you speak. I bet you could give a course on "perfect parenting". You really are showing your ignorant colors, we are proud to have people like you on this earth!......Our thoughts and prayers go out to this family going through this.
(Posted by: :))
: 7/10/2009
It was way out of the ordinary routine that morning and truly an accident. imagine the pain this family feels. pray for them to find a way to get past this.
(Posted by: )
: 7/10/2009
Please don't criticize before you know the details. The family must be suffering greatly. Thoughts and prayers to everyone.
(Posted by: )
baby: 7/10/2009
People do forget their babies in the car it happens every year This mother is heartbroken and devastated I'm sure This could happen to anyone Don't be so damning It was an accident and one that can never be changed Pray for the family This is tragic
(Posted by: )
Baby's Death: 7/10/2009
First off my heart goes out to the family of this tragedy. Let's not judge anyone to harshly, this world is so crazy and so busy and we all get so consumed in what needs to be done when we get to work. How can any of you say you have not forgotten to do something. This time it was an innocent child, it happens. The person this happened to will never be able to forgive themself. Please do not judge this person until you put yourself in the same shoes, the guilt will consume the person. Until you have lost a child you don't know what the parents will go through even through natural caues the guilt is overwhelming. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
(Posted by: Parent of another angel in the sky)
: 7/10/2009
I'm a firm believer that tragedies like this do not happen on purpose. We don't even know that facts and people are already so quick to crucify. Be kind don't judge. I'm praying for that family.
(Posted by: )
sorry: 7/10/2009
I am so sorry for you and your fasmil. ANd may you know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. ANd to the people that are passing judgement and making there own assumptions on what happend . Stop and think before you open you mouths,espically you have no idea on what happend or the situation. Just pray for this family and there l tragic loss, and remeber that you never know what can happend in your own life. MAy god bless you all.
(Posted by: sick of people passing judgement )
stop your judging, hays: 7/10/2009
you have to understand what horrible grief this person must be going through. while we do not know all the details it is important not to judge off of hearsay. it is a terrible tragedy for all involved, including the life of the child lost. while it is difficult for all of us to contemplate such a tragedy, we must remember it is just that. have respect for all who are grieving at this time. that baby was surely loved by many, and such hurtful, judgmental, hateful comments only worsen the pain of all those grieving the loss. better yourself by not focusing on the wrong done by spreading gossip or finding fault, but remembering a beautiful life. while brief as it may have been, it will surely not go unremembered.
(Posted by: amber)
: 7/10/2009
I can't imagine what this family is going through. People can point their fingers all they want, but you have no clue, or will you ever know the sorrow they are going through! My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Revelation 21:4 He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.
(Posted by: )
how...: 7/10/2009
I do not get how anyone could leave a baby or any child for that matter in a vehicle & not remember that child is in the vehicle? Makes one wonder what the person was doing who was taking care of the baby. May our Creator give comfort to those who loved this child.
(Posted by: A mom who doesn't forget her child.)
: 7/9/2009
Prayers for the family. There is one more angel up above. The Bible says be not quick to judge. Let's remember the little girl and family in prayers.
(Posted by: praying friend)
Wow: 7/9/2009
I just dont know what to say! What a sad deal. It happened not even two blocks from my house. I was headed to work and thought it was just a wreck. later found out what really happen. My heart hit the floor. I just dont understand how someone can forget about their kid. I would think that if someone had a kid that, that kid would ALWAYS be on ther mind. I can't imagine the heart ache for those family memebers who just found out. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. It just doesn't seem right that this is what happened and they call it an "accident". I am anxious to hear the outcome.
(Posted by: )
Praying: 7/9/2009
First of all, I am very sorry and my prayers go out to the family. I know this family and I know that this was a pure accident! People should not comment with out getting the facts first. So I suggest if your going to say anything it better be something nice! Until you know the whole details and what happened, keep the negative comments to yourself. Nothing upsets me more then to hear people judge other people. We are all human beings and God put us all on earth here for a reason! May God be with this family today and the rest of their lives.
(Posted by: a friend!)
baby: 7/9/2009
What is with the hurtful comments? You think these parents didn't love their baby? You are ignorant. This could happen to any of us. Accidents happen, that doesn't mean that they didn't love this baby. Life makes us busy, and sometimes we have too much on our plates. Move to a bigger city, this happens more than you might think. It is a tragic accident, but it does not mean that the parents love their baby any less than you and I love our babies. I am praying for the family, may God give you the strength you need. God does not give you more than you can handle, so he must know that you are strong people!
(Posted by: not ignorant)
: 7/9/2009
Let he who has never been distracted cast the first stone. Have you never forgotten to turn off the stove which could have caused a fire in which you could have lost a loved one. Have you never left the water running in the tub with your child in it while you just ran to his room for just a second to retrieve his night clothes? ( " But I was only gone just a minute.") Have you never gotten out of the car while shopping and turned to get your purse off the front seat which gave your child plenty of time to dart into traffic? ("But I only turned for a second" ) How often have you seen a child standing in a shopping cart while mom is getting groceries off the shelf. I have actually seen a child fall out of a grocery cart and the sound of that child hitting the hard floor, I never want to hear again. I have read accounts where children falling like that have died from hitting their head against the cement on impact. My children are raised and grown and I thank God that nothing bad ever happened to them during one of my moments of forgetfulness. I am sure that if each one of us looks deep within our own souls that we will all remember moments that we forgot and then just couldn't get over that we could ever have been so remiss. In today's world everything is so hectic, fast paced and stressful that at times we have all committed grave errors. I pray that these parents can get through this unbelievably difficult and tragic time. My heart goes out to them. I can't even begin to imagine what they are going through. Put yourself in their shoes and ask yourself , " How often did I do something that could have easily put my child in jeopardy?" I think none of us can cast the first stone!
(Posted by: sb)
: 7/9/2009
People should not judge others before knowing the whole story and truth related to this situation. The parents of this child are the most kind loving people I've ever met and they absolutely adored their daughter. Everything happens for a reason,although sometimes it is hard to understand why. Of course this was not a purposeful action by the parents of the infant. They are suffering more than anyone right now and the community should be supportive of them during this time. I'm praying for the family to help them through this tragedy.
(Posted by: KG)
A time for grief: 7/9/2009
Dear Readers, This is a difficult time for all those involved. During tragedy and grief, we often fluctuate between anger, grief, confusion, blame, and just plain heart break. This baby was loved very much loved by her mother and father. This was nothing more than a tragic accident and heart crushing experience. Their family and co-workers are also devastated (of which I am one). Please keep this baby and her parents in your prayers. God's Grace is big enough to heal even big events like these.
(Posted by: )
family: 7/9/2009
This couple is someone's family and they are all hurting. It truely was a mistake and unfortunate slip of the mind. They are both wonderful people and loved their baby very much. Please pray for them and their family. They will never be the same, they have to live with the fact that this happened.
(Posted by: :()
Think: 7/9/2009
Before you jump in and say bad things about this baby's mother, you should know the facts. This baby's mother is a WONDERFUL parent, and heart broken right now in a way that none of us should EVER have to experience. The baby's mother had NOTHING to do with this, just so you know!
(Posted by: Amber)
Blame: 7/9/2009
Don't be so quick to judge the mother right away, the full facts are not in yet, apparantly it is both parents fault, the infant was left in the father's vehicle, It is heartwrenching to know and wonder how something like this could happen. But until all facts are in, don't point fingers at just one person.
(Posted by: )
: 7/9/2009
Another preventable child death. Please visit www.kidsandcars.org
(Posted by: Pat)
My prayers are with this family!!: 7/9/2009
Our thoughts and prayers go out to this family! For those who want to JUDGE people when they don't know the story instead of saying a prayer for the family doesn't say much either! I happen to know the parents of this baby and they are terrific people!! It's a TERRIBLE TRAGEDY and we should be praying for them instead of JUDGING them!!!
(Posted by: a Phillipsburg Friend!)
: 7/9/2009
Anyone that has lost a child knows the pain this family is going through. Do not judge. This family needs our prayers.
(Posted by: )
prayers: 7/9/2009
our prayers go out to the infants family.
(Posted by: Sheila Roberts)
: 7/9/2009
Don't judge!! You don't know what happened and it is easy to say I would never!! This truely is a horribly tragedy and the family needs prayers and support - not your critisism!!
(Posted by: )
: 7/9/2009
Instead of putting our energy into anger towards the parents/mother and put our energy towards praying for this poor infant's family instead. As humans we are so quick to judge and want to seek revenge... why don't we just realize that we are all humans and this is a horrible tragedy!
(Posted by: Hays Resident)
: 7/9/2009
I agree...we shouldn't judge! I can't imagine the pain this baby's parents are going through. Let it be a lesson to everyone to slow down...may this never happen to another child!
(Posted by: another parent)
very sad: 7/9/2009
This is horrible. I hope others can learn from this tragic mistake so we do not continue to see this happen ever again.
(Posted by: TS)
Baby: 7/9/2009
You don't even know the mother. I do, and her and her husband were excellent parents. This was a tragic accident. Please pray for the family.
(Posted by: Praying)
BABY DIES IN CAR: 7/9/2009
We all get so busy day to day with our schedules.. sometimes we move like robots...... this man did not normally take his child to the sitter, this day he did.... and he forgot.... IT WAS AN ACCIDENT... trust me , this man will punish himself enough... He needs support from friends and family especially now.... my heart goes out to him and his wife. and family..... Please say a prayer for them all....
(Posted by: )
: 7/9/2009
Reading the comment above about the mother is so upsetting. I know her personally and she is a beautiful, loving, person and absolutely adored her baby. You should know the circumstances about the situation before you start judging anybody. This will totally devastate this family and they have enough pain to deal with without hearing others ignorant comments! We need to all say prayers for them during this awful tragedy instead of backlashing them!
(Posted by: D.G.)
Horrible: 7/9/2009
How could a parent leave a baby in a car for that long without remembering one of the most important things in life your child. But I still pray for the family and the baby.
(Posted by: )
Baby: 7/9/2009
First of all my prayers go out to the baby and its family. For those who are judging the parents, don't! I know people personally wo have forgotten there kids, but thank God, they survived. It is easy to get caught up in your every day routine and forget. there have been times I have driven to work and not remembering my drive there. So dont judge. Let the first without sin throw the first stone.
(Posted by: Faith in Christ)
baby: 7/9/2009
you are so quick to condem someone as if it was intentional! get all the facts before you start bad mouthing the parents. Accidents do happen. You kind of people are always so quick to prejudge others, and you think you are so perfect!
(Posted by: sick of stupid heartless people comments)
No blame: 7/9/2009
There are so many what ifs. Why didn't the daycare call when the baby wasn't dropped off? Etc, etc. While this is shocking, none of us are immune from befalling a similar tragedy, and to get on our high horse and throw blame and accusations is ignorant. This is a tragedy through and through, and I hope the father and mother hold on a realize that they CAN come out on the other side and have happiness again. NO BLAME. Let's learn from it, and be greatful for every day that something similar doesn't happen to us.
(Posted by: heartbreaksforthefamily)
infant death: 7/9/2009
I agree with some of the comments.How can you 'forget" you have a child? Is your time more precious than the saftey of a childs life? I just don't understand I am mother and grandmother and there is no way I would leave my children in the car for any reason.
(Posted by: concerned for this generation)
: 7/9/2009
pretty sure it wasnt the mother who left her in the car......dont judge just pray they can get through this....
(Posted by: )
: 7/9/2009
First of all, you do not know your facts. It was not the mother. It does not matter who it was. You need to know your facts before you run your mouth. You never have any idea when it could happen to you, and don't say it never will...because then it can. Do not throw stones.
(Posted by: Quick to Judge)
: 7/9/2009
It is very sad and my heart goes out to the family. However everyone should know it was not the mother who left the baby in the vehicle.
(Posted by: )
So Sad...: 7/9/2009
Unless something comes out to the contrary, please assume this is a horrible tragedy and the pain the parents are going through is worse than hell. They will have enough to deal with without our judgements. Our prayers for the sweet child and the family.
(Posted by: lisasalt)
Stop pointing fingers: 7/9/2009
There are a lot of circumstances involved that we do not know about. So stop pointing fingers! This family needs a great deal of support from the people of Hays. Let's all send our prayers out to this family.
(Posted by: someone who cares)
: 7/9/2009
The judgement...it's sad. As horrible as this is, it could in fact happen to ANYONE...including the cruel people posting on here.
(Posted by: )
po parent: 7/9/2009
Its a terrible situation and a definite tragedy however the things that you are so are just as awful, the mother was not involved in any of it, I'm sure she feels enough pain as it is right now with out your nonsense to go with it. Try thinking before you talk sometimes.
(Posted by: )
Sorry: 7/9/2009
Hearts Thoughts & Prays for You & Yours
(Posted by: Sparky)
Infant's death: 7/9/2009
How on earth could anyone leave a baby in a car, especially when the temperatures outside are in the 90's?? What were they thinking!! It's not like you forget a bag of groceries in the back seat; this is a human being, a tiny defenseless baby. People, get your heads on straight, drop the ignorance, and treasure the beautiful gifts God has given you. May God bless the poor baby that was left in that car, she is now a little angel amongst the stars in heaven!
(Posted by: just/pray)
: 7/9/2009
We are praying for this family during this hard time. We are often quick to judge. A simple slip of the mind, a tragic mistake.
(Posted by: )
: 7/9/2009
This is such a tragedy....my heart goes out to the baby's family
(Posted by: )

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