A 29-year-old Georgia mother was arrested after her infant son was found dead inside a sweltering car outside a Lawrenceville hospital on July 29. Deja Coleman, who works at Northside Gwinnett Hospital, told police she forgot to drop her baby off at daycare after dropping her two other children off earlier that morning.
How the Baby Was Found
Lawrenceville police were called to the hospital just before 4 p.m. after reports of an unresponsive child locked inside a vehicle. Officers broke the window to reach the infant, but the baby was already dead in his car seat.
When police measured the temperature inside the car — an hour after the child was found — it read 117 degrees.
Mother Charged With Murder
Coleman was charged with second-degree murder and second-degree cruelty to children. She was taken to the Gwinnett County Detention Center following her arrest.
Police Captain Dena Pauly said Coleman was “devastated” upon learning of her baby’s death.
Police Issue a Warning to All Parents
During a press conference, Captain Pauly urged parents to slow down and prioritize their wellbeing.
“Slow down in life,” Pauly said. “If you need help, seek help. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep so that you can take care of your children.”
Where the Case Stands
Coleman remains in custody at the Gwinnett County Detention Center as the investigation continues.
