Home / Crime and Justice / Man Dies in Hot Van Outside Arizona Care Facility
Man Dies in Hot Van Outside Arizona Care Facility
8 Jun
Summary
- Man with disabilities died after being left in a van for hours.
- Temperatures reached 106 degrees Fahrenheit on the day of the incident.
- Homicide detectives are investigating the death at the care facility.
Police in Mesa, Arizona, are investigating the death of Lorenzo Lopez, a 36-year-old man with developmental disabilities, who was found deceased inside a vehicle on Thursday, June 4. Sources indicate Lopez was left in the van for several hours at Pathways for Life, a care facility, while outside temperatures reached a dangerous 106 degrees Fahrenheit.
The incident came to light when Lopez's grandmother and caretaker contacted the facility after he failed to return home, initiating a search. Authorities were then called to the scene. A spokesperson for Pathways for Life expressed deep sadness and stated the company is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
Disability Rights Arizona has raised questions about the training and protocols for individuals transporting those with disabilities. The organization noted that while they have not previously investigated Pathways for Life, they are reviewing the circumstances. Homicide detectives have taken over the investigation, which remains active.
