A heartbreaking event recently unfolded in Birmingham, where a 3-year-old boy was left in a hot car for several hours, tragically resulting in his death.

The child, identified as Keterurius “KJ” Sparks Jr. from Bessemer, was under the care of the Department of Human Resources (DHR), which had arranged for transportation services for him.

KJ was discovered inside a vehicle at a home on Pine Tree Drive. Reports indicate he was left in the car from around 12:30 PM until 5:30 PM. Experts suggest the internal temperature may have soared to 150 degrees during that time. The Birmingham Fire and Rescue Services arrived and pronounced him dead at the scene.

The DHR released a statement addressing the incident, confirming that a contractor was responsible for transporting the child. They stated that the contractor has since terminated the employee involved in this case. Due to privacy regulations, specific details regarding the child and the situation cannot be disclosed.

As explained by Covenant Services, the contractor is a private organization that has offered family support services for over two decades. Their programs include parenting classes, therapeutic support, educational help, behavioral assistance, sitter services, and teaching essential life skills. They strive to cater to families’ needs in various environments, including homes and community locations.

Contract workers have collaborated with law enforcement and provided information to the Birmingham Police Department as part of the ongoing investigation.

KJ’s biological father last saw him during a scheduled visit on the morning of the incident. He expressed his overwhelming emotions, saying, “Words can’t describe how I feel right now.” He recalled that KJ often asked to go with him, a sentiment that has deeply affected him.

The boy’s foster parents were also distraught, noting that when they arrived to pick him up later that day, he was not there.

This tragic situation has led the family to pursue legal representation. Attorney Courtney French, who is representing KJ’s family, mentioned that the contractor picked him up from daycare for a supervised visit. After their visit, they stopped for food and other errands, leaving KJ unattended in the vehicle, which lasted over five hours. French referred to this incident as a “preventable tragedy” and confirmed that an investigation is underway.

Amber Rollins, a director focusing on child and car safety, stressed the dangers of leaving children in hot cars, emphasizing how rapidly temperature increases in such environments. She pointed out the immediate risks children face under these circumstances.

State officials are also grappling with the implications of this incident. Ontario Tillman, a state representative, expressed his shock and concern for KJ’s family, seeking answers on how this occurred.

State Senator Merica Coleman remarked on her devastation and signaled her intent to review state laws to prevent similar tragedies in the future, offering her prayers to the grieving family.

The investigation by Birmingham police is ongoing, and no charges have been announced at this time.