Children Rescued from Hot Car in Phoenix
Authorities in Phoenix, Arizona responded to a distressing situation on Thursday afternoon, discovering multiple children locked inside a parked car that wasn’t running. This incident occurred in a business parking lot located near 24th and Madison Streets.
According to police reports, the outside temperature was around 104 degrees, but it climbed to approximately 125 degrees inside the vehicle. Officers managed to gain access to the car and rescued four children, aged 2, 3, 4, and 7.
Upon evaluation, police noted that all four children had internal temperature readings nearing 100 degrees. Sergeant Rob Scheller described the condition of the children, saying they exhibited signs of distress, including bright red skin and heavy sweating. “Clearly, the heat was taking a toll,” he mentioned.
After the rescue, officers located the children’s father, identified as 38-year-old Asensio Lago, inside a nearby business. Reports indicated that he had entered the establishment about an hour before he was found. Court documents disclosed that Lago had been in an adult store at the time.
When questioned by authorities, Lago initially denied ownership of the car. However, as he attempted to leave the scene, police observed his reaction, indicating he may have understood the seriousness of the situation.
Maricopa County Commissioner Jane McLaughlin expressed shock at the reported circumstances during Lago’s court appearance. She highlighted the apparent lack of responsibility, emphasizing the well-known dangers of leaving children in hot cars, especially in Arizona.
Furthermore, legal records indicated that officers detected the smell of alcohol on Lago, and noted that his driver’s license had restrictions requiring ignition interlocks, which were not present in his vehicle.
Lago has been charged with eight counts of felony child abuse and endangerment. A bond of $50,000 has been requested based on his prior criminal history, which includes a severe DUI. If he posts bail set at $5,000, he has been ordered to avoid contact with the children.
