Santa Clarita, CA – A 6-year-old girl wearing only a diaper and shirt was found wandering a busy Santa Clarita street late Wednesday night, prompting the arrest of her mother on suspicion of felony child endangerment.
Discovery on Magic Mountain Parkway
Around 10:45 p.m., a teenager walking his dog spotted the girl near the heavily trafficked intersection of Magic Mountain Parkway and McBean Parkway, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
The Good Samaritan, identified as Julius Rivera, said he was alarmed by the sight and quickly called authorities.
“I was trying to stop her, but then she was just running from me, so I called the cops, and they found her over here,” Rivera said in the parking lot of a nearby Five Below store.
He described the child as carrying a backpack, walking with a small dog, and holding an iPad.
Deputies Respond and Identify Child
Deputies arrived shortly after and placed the child and her dog safely into a patrol vehicle. Using the iPad, they were able to determine the girl’s name and home address.
When they reached the residence, they found the girl’s mother asleep inside and seemingly unaware her daughter was missing. Authorities reported, as per KTLA, that the woman showed “symptoms of intoxication, including slurred speech, impaired coordination, and a strong odor of alcohol.”
Custody and Arrest
The girl, who officials noted appeared to have developmental challenges, was released into the custody of her father.
Her mother, whose identity has not been released, was arrested on suspicion of felony child endangerment involving risk of serious injury or death. She was transported to the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station.
Sheriff’s Department Statement
In a statement, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department emphasized its commitment to protecting children:
“We take child safety extremely seriously. Even one moment of impaired supervision can place a child at risk of tragedy, and our deputies will always act to protect those who cannot protect themselves.”
Community Concerns
The incident has raised concerns among Santa Clarita residents, who say it highlights the importance of vigilance and community awareness. Many praised the teenager who stepped in to call authorities, noting that his quick action may have prevented a tragedy. Local officials reminded parents and guardians to remain alert and seek help if they are struggling with supervision responsibilities.
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