A North Charleston woman is facing serious charges after police say she left her small children alone in a hot car with no safety restraints, raising major concerns about child safety and responsible parenting.
North Charleston Mom Charged After Leaving Young Children Alone in Hot Car
Obdulia Lopez, 30, has been charged with two counts of child endangerment after an incident outside a store on Rivers Avenue. According to the North Charleston Police Department, Lopez left her one-year-old and three-year-old children unattended in a parked car for over 30 minutes while she went inside to shop.
What Police Found at the Scene
Officers were called to the scene when concerned bystanders noticed the children alone in the vehicle. When they arrived, the car was already pulling out of the parking lot. Police stopped the vehicle and discovered four children under the age of three in the back seat.
Shockingly, none of the children were secured in car seats or wearing seat belts—a violation of basic child safety laws.
Temperature and Time Add to Danger
Surveillance footage from the store confirmed that Lopez had been inside for over half an hour. At the time, the outside temperature was 80°F. While that might not seem dangerously hot, experts warn that the temperature inside a vehicle can rise quickly, putting young children at serious risk of heatstroke or dehydration, especially when windows are rolled up.
Children Released to Family Member
Following the incident, the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) was contacted. The children were examined and then released into the care of a responsible family member. Authorities have not released additional details about their current condition but confirmed they did not require hospitalization.
Lopez Taken Into Custody
Lopez was arrested on the spot and booked into the Al Cannon Detention Center. She is currently facing two felony charges of child endangerment, with the possibility of more charges pending investigation. No bond or court date details have been released yet.
Child Endangerment Laws in South Carolina
In South Carolina, leaving a child unattended in a vehicle or failing to properly secure them with a car seat or seatbelt can lead to felony child endangerment charges. These charges are taken very seriously, especially when multiple children are involved and weather conditions pose a clear risk.
A Stark Reminder for Parents and Caregivers
This case serves as a serious warning to all parents and caregivers: never leave children alone in a vehicle, not even for a few minutes. Even mild temperatures can turn deadly inside a closed car, and the absence of proper restraints increases the risk of injury or death in the event of a crash.
Authorities also urge the public to call 911 if they ever see a child left alone in a vehicle, as quick action can save lives.
The arrest of Obdulia Lopez highlights a disturbing but all-too-common issue—neglecting basic safety measures for children. With four toddlers left unsecured and unattended for over 30 minutes in warm weather, the risk was real and serious. Thanks to alert witnesses and quick police action, the children are now safe. But this case should serve as a clear reminder: safety must come first—always.
