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Written by: E. George
Published July 29, 2024 @ 9:00 PM ET
Warning: The following story contains information regarding alleged physical violence against/neglect of children.
BEN HILL COUNTY, Ga. – In a tragic case, a 4-year-old boy has died after being left unsupervised and climbing into a hot car. The child’s mother, 30-year-old Kelsey Monaco, has now been charged with murder.
The incident occurred on July 24, 2024, and the Fitzgerald Police Department called upon the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) to probe the circumstances surrounding the boy’s death. According to the investigators, Monaco allowed her son to leave their apartment alone. At some point, the child found his way into a parked car, where he was later discovered unresponsive.
Authorities have stated that the young boy was immediately transported to a local hospital. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The extreme heat inside the car is believed to be a significant factor in his death. Reports from Kids and Car Safety indicate that at least 15 children have died in hot cars across the nation in 2024.
Following the incident, Monaco was arrested and booked at the Ben Hill County Jail. She faces one count of first-degree child cruelty and one count of felony murder.
The case has drawn significant attention, and the investigation remains active. Once completed, the case will be forwarded to the Cordelle Judicial District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
As the investigation continues, officials are asking the public for any additional information that might aid their inquiries. The Fitzgerald Police Department, the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Perry, and the GBI tip line are all open for tips and information.