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Fatal Fall: Maryland Grandmother Found Guilty of Neglect
14 Aug
Summary
- Grandmother convicted of child neglect after grandson's fatal fall.
- Boy fell from car window on I-97, then struck by another vehicle.
- Accused of letting child play with power window; child lock disengaged.
Lorraine Marie O'Neill, 68, of Hagerstown, was found guilty on Thursday of child neglect after her 7-year-old grandson died in a car accident in November 2024. The incident occurred on I-97 in Millersville, Maryland, when the child fell from the rear passenger side window of O'Neill's vehicle.
The child landed on the roadway and was fatally struck by an oncoming car. Prosecutors stated O'Neill drove for 11 miles before realizing the boy was missing. She admitted to allowing him to play with the power window, and the child lock had not been engaged.
State's Attorney Anne Colt Leitess emphasized the need for adult vigilance and accountability in this tragic case. O'Neill's conviction carries a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and a $5,000 fine. Her sentencing is scheduled for October 2.
