Father takes his own life after 18-month-old found dead in hot car

An investigation is underway

Police are investigating two deaths in America after an 18-month-old baby died from being left in a vehicle for hours, with his father dying by suicide the same day. Chesterfield County Police responded to reports of a child being left in a family vehicle on Tuesday after family members said he had not been dropped off at daycare in Richmond, Virginia. The baby's mother and other family members said the unnamed father was making suicidal statements. According to the Richmond Times Dispatch, police were told by "other people" that the vehicle was at the father's home on Aldengate Road and were urged to "check on his welfare." [caption id="attachment_344944" align="alignnone" width="2048"] The police were called to a property on the 14100 block of Aldengate Road/Via Google Maps[/caption] Upon arriving at the property, officers discovered the vehicle with neither the unnamed father nor the baby inside. The body of the 18-month-old was found inside the house, while his father's body was found in a nearby wooded area with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. "It's just a tragedy on so many levels," said police Lt. Col. Christopher Hensley. "Our hearts go out to the family and friends that are going to deal with this." The police believe that the father left the child in the car for several hours before realising his mistake, at which point it was too late. It's then understood that the man took the boy home and placed his body inside before going to the wooded area and shooting himself. Officials have not yet released the identities of the deceased, and anyone with additional information has been urged to call the police at (804) 748-1251 or Crime Solvers at (804) 748-0660. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health head to thecalmzone.net for practical tips and advice. You can also talk to Samaritans 24/7 by calling 116 123 for free or visiting the Samaritans website. Alternatively, you can find more information and advice on the NHS website.

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