An investigation is underway into the cause of death of a 20-month-old child found unresponsive at a home in the 100 block of Clinmar.
The Centralia Police and Fire Department, along with Emergency Medical Response, were called to the scene around two Saturday afternoon when a family member reported the child was unresponsive.
First responders immediately initiated life-saving measures at the scene. The child was transported to St. Mary’s Hospital for further emergency treatment. Tragically, despite these efforts, the child did not survive.
The child was pronounced dead in the hospital emergency room by Coroner Claude Howell. An autopsy is planned for Monday.
The Centralia Police Department has contacted the Illinois State Police Child Death Task Force, which is assisting with the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death, as is standard procedure in incidents of this nature.
Centralia Police Lieutenant Steve Whritenour says that while the child was not reported ill at the time, there were some past medical issues.
The Centralia Police Department extends its deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the child’s family during this incredibly difficult time.
