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Toddler Found Breathing in Morgue Hours After Declared Dead
7 Jul
Summary
- Child was declared dead, then found breathing in hospital morgue.
- Police are recommending negligence charges against the parents.
- A doctor's attorney stated more facts about the case exist.
A toddler in a Phoenix suburb was discovered breathing hours after being pronounced dead and taken to a hospital morgue. The near-drowning incident occurred on February 8, and first responders performed life-saving measures before transporting the child to Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. Despite initial pronouncements of death, police officers noted signs of life.
Later, the child was located breathing in the hospital's "cold room" by medical examiner's staff and was promptly flown to another facility. The toddler ultimately survived the ordeal and has been released.
Investigators have recommended negligence charges against the parents, citing a strong marijuana odor at the home and unsecured access to the pool. The Maricopa County Attorney's Office is reviewing the case. An attorney for one of the doctors involved suggested that more details pertinent to the situation are yet to be revealed.
