Louisiana–Authorities in Louisiana are crediting a Walmart employee with saving the life of a newborn who was left in a hot car.
The incident occurred outside of the store in Slidell around 10:00 am Thursday.
Officials say they were initially called to the store after the woman identified as 37-year-old Ashley Kennedy, was seen intoxicated in the parking lot with her 16-day-old baby.
When authorities arrived at the scene, they could not locate Kennedy or the child.
Witnesses told investigators that Kennedy left with the newborn in a gray Honda Odyssey minivan.
About an hour later, authorities received another call from the store stating that the woman returned but did not have her child.
Officials first located Kennedy’s vehicle and noticed her child under a blanket.
They then broke into the car to find that while the air conditioner was on, it was blowing hot air.
The child was said to appear lethargic and was rushed to an area hospital.
Authorities then went into the store to find Kennedy intoxicated and shopping.
She was then taken into custody.
While Kennedy was in custody, it was also discovered that she was involved in a hit-and-run accident earlier in the day.
She is now facing charges for cruelty to juveniles, driving while intoxicated with child endangerment, hit and run, and improper child restraint.
She will soon be transferred to St. Tammany Parish Jail.
The baby has been placed in the custody of the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services.