A 27-year-old woman from Dallas has been charged with murder after police say she intentionally left her 15-month-old child in a hot car, leading to the baby’s death.
Incident in Frisco on August 16
According to a press release from the Frisco Police Department, the incident happened on August 16, 2025. Investigators say Vanessa Esquivel drove to her workplace in the 3200 block of Preston Road around 2 p.m., leaving her child inside the car.
Police allege Esquivel knew the car’s air conditioning was not working and still left the baby inside for more than two hours. That afternoon, outside temperatures were at least 95 degrees.
The child was later taken to Medical City Plano, where police and detectives were notified of the case. Authorities confirmed the baby did not survive. The child’s name and gender have not been publicly released.
Police Say Act Was Intentional
Detectives concluded there was probable cause to believe Esquivel intentionally left the child in danger. In their statement, police explained:
“Her intentionally leaving the child in the car caused injury/endangered the child, which is a felony. Because it resulted in the child’s death, her actions met the statutory requirements of murder.”
Arrest and Charges
A search warrant was issued, and Esquivel was arrested by Dallas Police on August 20. She was later transferred to the Collin County Jail by Frisco Police officers.
She is being held on a $250,000 bond. If convicted of the first-degree felony, Esquivel faces five years to life in prison and a possible fine of up to $10,000.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Response
The case has sparked anger and grief in the community, with many pointing to the dangers of leaving children in vehicles—especially during Texas summer heat, when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in minutes.
Authorities are still investigating, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to call the Frisco Police non-emergency line at 972-292-6010 or submit an anonymous tip by texting FRISCOPD + tip to 847411.
This tragic case highlights the devastating consequences of child neglect in extreme heat. With summer temperatures regularly climbing above 90 degrees in Texas, authorities continue to stress the importance of checking vehicles carefully before walking away. For the family of the child, however, the reminders come too late.
