In a heartbreaking incident in Marana, Arizona, a father has been charged with murder after his two-year-old daughter, Parker Scholtes, was found unresponsive in the back of his car during scorching 109°F heat.
Parker was discovered by her mother, Erika Scholtes, outside their home on Tuesday.
Initially thought to have been left for less than an hour, security footage later revealed she had been in the car for approximately three hours.
Father’s Explanation and Tragic Outcome
Christopher Scholtes, 37, had left Parker in the car with the air conditioning on and the vehicle running, intending not to disturb her sleep upon arriving home.
However, upon Erika’s return, Parker was found unresponsive, prompting immediate CPR and a call to 911.
Despite efforts to resuscitate her, Parker tragically passed away at Banner University Medical Center Tucson, where Erika worked as an anesthesiologist.
Legal Actions and Family Background
On Friday, Christopher Scholtes was charged with second-degree murder and child abuse, and he is currently detained in the Pima County Adult Detention Center.
The Scholtes family had previously enjoyed outings and shared moments on social media, highlighting Parker’s early life adventures and family trips.
Investigation and Community Response
Marana Police Captain Tim Brunenkant emphasized ongoing investigations to determine the circumstances of Parker’s death, cautioning against leaving children unattended in cars, especially during extreme heat.
This devastating incident serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers associated with leaving children alone in vehicles, prompting community reflection and support for the grieving family during this difficult time.