Toddler Left in Freezing Cold on School Bus: Oregon DHS Launches Investigation

An allegation that a two-year-old child was left strapped in a safety seat on a school bus for three hours in 36-degree weather is under investigation by the Oregon Department of Human Services.

The incident occurred at an Aumsville children’s learning center on Monday and the local police department was called in to investigate. The toddler was not wearing a coat when she was allegedly left on the bus.

The executive director of Family Building Blocks, Patrice Altenhofen, said the school was aware of the ‘family’s concerns and the gravity of the situation.’ She said the complaint would be addressed ‘with care and transparency.’

The incident is being investigated by the Oregon Department of Human Services’ Office of Training, Investigations, and Safety and is expected to take two months before completion.

The findings will be handed over to law enforcement agencies and to Oregon’s Department of Early Learning and Care. Violations for non-compliance can result in a provider losing its license.