A Texas mother is accused of leaving her two young daughters alone for several weeks while she stayed out of state, allegedly sending them food through Uber Eats during her absence.
Texas Mother Accused of Abandoning Children
Authorities in Harris County, Texas, said Rayshawna Deanna Dowdell, 34, could face a felony child abandonment charge.
Investigators allege Dowdell left her daughters, ages 6 and 11, alone at their home in Katy for about six weeks starting in February 2025.
Children Reportedly Left Without Adult Supervision
According to court documents, the girls were discovered after they told a woman at a nearby park that they had been living alone without their mother.
The woman reportedly took the children into her home and contacted police.
Investigators said the 11-year-old was responsible for caring for her younger sister, preparing meals, and managing daily activities during that time.
Mother Allegedly Sent Food Through Uber Eats
Police said messages recovered during the investigation showed Dowdell allegedly instructed her eldest daughter remotely while she was out of state attending a funeral.
Authorities claimed she sent food deliveries through Uber Eats but failed to provide proper supervision or care.
Court documents also stated the children reported fear, emotional distress, and lack of food during the period they were left alone.
Children Later Found in Ohio
Child Protective Services temporarily placed the girls with an aunt, but investigators said Dowdell later took the children and left Texas.
Authorities claimed she provided false information about their location, leading to several failed welfare checks.
The children were eventually located in Ohio during a welfare check by law enforcement.
It remains unclear whether Dowdell is currently in custody.
