A disturbing incident in Corona, California, is serving as a wake-up call to parents and caregivers about the life-threatening dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles. On June 17, 2025, officers with the City of Corona Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting a baby left alone in a parked car with the engine turned off and the windows fully rolled up.
Upon arrival, officers immediately observed the infant in visible distress. Acting swiftly, they shattered a window to rescue the child. At the time of the infant’s rescue, the Corona Fire Department later measured the internal temperature of the vehicle and reported it to be a staggering 110 degrees Fahrenheit, despite the outside temperature being 96 degrees at the time.
Authorities have not released additional information regarding the baby’s condition following the rescue. However, dramatic footage of the incident underscores just how quickly these situations can turn deadly.
The Corona Police Department is urging the public: Do not leave your children alone in a vehicle, not even for a minute.
Even with windows cracked or air conditioning running, temperatures inside a parked car can climb rapidly, posing a serious risk of heatstroke, brain injury, or even death. According to the National Safety Council, an average of 38 children die in hot cars each year in the U.S., and most are under the age of 3.
This latest event is a stark reminder that as summer temperatures rise, so do the risks. Parents, caregivers, and anyone transporting children are encouraged to implement safeguards:
- Always check the back seat before locking your car.
- Use reminders or apps to prevent leaving a child behind. (Example: keep the baby bag in the front seat. )
- Call 911 if you ever see a child left unattended in a vehicle.
Let this serve not only as a cautionary tale but also as a call to action. A few seconds of awareness can prevent a lifetime of regret.
For more information and safety resources, visit https://www.kidsandcars.org.
