Richmond County Coroner’s Office Investigating Death of 16-Month-Old Child on Ward Avenue

Richmond County Coroner’s Office Investigating Death of 16-Month-Old Child on Ward Avenue

RICHMOND COUNTY, GA — A deeply tragic and unsettling scene unfolded early Tuesday morning as the Richmond County Coroner’s Office responded to the untimely death of a young child in the 2200 block of Ward Avenue. Authorities confirmed that a 16-month-old child was found unresponsive inside the home and was pronounced dead at 5:15 a.m.

The call to emergency services came in the early hours of the morning, prompting a swift response from both medical and law enforcement personnel. Upon arrival, first responders discovered two children inside the residence. While one child was tragically pronounced deceased at the scene, the second child was immediately transported by EMS to the Children’s Hospital of Georgia for medical evaluation and treatment. As of this time, the condition of the second child has not been disclosed, and no additional information about their identity or the nature of their injuries has been made public.

Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen confirmed that the body of the deceased child has been taken into custody by the Coroner’s Office, and an autopsy has been scheduled to determine the official cause and manner of death. The autopsy, to be conducted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), is expected to play a crucial role in shedding light on the events that led to the child’s death and may help determine whether foul play, neglect, or medical conditions contributed to this heartbreaking outcome.

Law enforcement officials, including representatives from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, are actively investigating the incident. The home on Ward Avenue remains a focus of the ongoing investigation, with detectives reportedly interviewing individuals connected to the residence and gathering potential evidence. Authorities have not yet released any names or additional details about the family involved, and no arrests have been made as of Tuesday afternoon.

“This is a tragic situation that touches everyone involved — the family, the first responders, and our entire community,” said one law enforcement official familiar with the investigation. “We are working carefully and methodically to ensure that all facts are gathered before any conclusions are drawn.”

The community has already begun to express its grief and concern over the incident, with local residents calling for prayers and support for the family. The death of such a young child has left many in shock and mourning, as neighbors described the scene as somber and heart-wrenching.

In a brief statement, officials emphasized that this remains an active and ongoing investigation. The authorities are urging the public to refrain from speculation and to allow law enforcement the necessary time and space to complete their work. Additional details, including the results of the autopsy and the condition of the surviving child, are expected to be released as they become available.

The Richmond County Coroner’s Office and local law enforcement continue to work closely with medical professionals and child welfare authorities to ensure a thorough and compassionate investigation into this devastating event.

Community members with any relevant information are encouraged to contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.

As the investigation unfolds, the thoughts and condolences of the entire Richmond County community are with the family during this unimaginably difficult time.