Miramar Beach, FL — A Texas couple is facing charges after allegedly leaving their six-month-old baby unattended for nearly an hour on a Florida beach while they wandered off with their other children, authorities said.
Brian and Sara Wilks, of Houston, Texas, were vacationing with their four children at Miramar Beach when witnesses spotted their infant alone under a tent, prompting an emergency response from local authorities.
Witnesses Alert Authorities
According to the Walton County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO), deputies responded around noon on Friday, October 11, after reports of an unattended infant on the beach. Good Samaritans were already caring for the baby when deputies arrived.
“The baby was left alone while the parents wandered the beach with their other children,” witnesses told police.
Security footage obtained by investigators showed that the parents had been away for nearly an hour. The couple later admitted to leaving the baby for a nap under the tent and claimed they had simply “lost track of time.”
As reported by PEOPLE, the sheriff’s office confirmed that the family did not bring a cell phone with them when they left the area.
“Security footage confirmed the family was away for nearly an hour and did not bring their cell phone with them,” the WCSO said.
Baby Found Safe and Unharmed
Emergency responders from the South Walton Fire District (SWFD) arrived shortly after deputies and examined the baby, who was found with normal vital signs and no distress.
The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) later took temporary custody of all four children until relatives could travel from Texas to pick them up.
“We’re thankful for the quick-thinking beachgoer who raised the alarm and for those who stepped in to care for the child with the same kindness and concern they would show their own,” said Sheriff Michael Adkinson.
Parents Charged With Child Neglect
Both parents were arrested and charged with child neglect without great bodily harm. The couple was released the following day on a $1,000 bond, according to court records.
Major Dustin Cosson of the sheriff’s office criticized their explanation, calling it unacceptable.
“That’s all fine and dandy, but you don’t just leave a baby at a house and then go off to the store,” Cosson said. “The baby could roll over and suffocate itself, or the wind could blow a towel over its face. There’s no telling what could have happened.”
Sara Wilks reportedly works as a regional president at US Heart and Vascular in Houston, according to Cardiovascular Business.
Sheriff’s Office Issues a Warning
Following the incident, officials issued a public reminder about the dangers of leaving infants unattended, even briefly.
Key takeaways from the Walton County Sheriff’s Office include:
- Never leave a child unsupervised, even for a short period.
- Assign clear responsibilities when multiple children are present.
- Keep a phone nearby in case of emergencies.
- Use shaded areas safely, ensuring babies are not left alone under covers or tents.
- Trust your instincts—if you’re distracted or tired, seek help before stepping away.
“This incident serves as a reminder that even brief moments of inattention can have serious consequences,” the WCSO said.
Cosson added a final warning to visitors:
“As you cross into Florida, don’t leave your common sense behind. You still have to do the best for your children.”
What are your thoughts on this shocking case and the sheriff’s warning to parents? Share your views in the comments below.
