A 2-year-old child has died after an apparent medical emergency at the home of a disgraced Massachusetts police lieutenant and adoptive father, according to reports. This man is in jail on suspicion of child rape.
The girl's mother called 911 Friday after finding her unresponsive in Winthrop, about 20 minutes west of Boston.
With no ambulance immediately available, Fire Chief Scott Wiley rushed the infant to Massachusetts General Hospital in the back seat of his SUV while two paramedics rescued him. NBC10 Boston reported.
She was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden's office said an initial investigation showed no signs of foul play or physical trauma. stated in a statement on friday.
Initial reports said the child was found at the home of James Feely, a former Winthrop police lieutenant who was arrested in December.
The girl's identity has not yet been released, and authorities said Not commenting on any relationship Between feely and toddler.
Feeley, who was a foster parent with the state Department of Children and Families, is charged with rape, indecent assault and battery on a child under 12, according to reports.
He reportedly confessed but pleaded not guilty at his arraignment on Dec. 27.
According to preliminary investigation, the deceased infant appeared to have been unwell for the past few days. CBS reported.
“Events like this are extremely tragic, not only for the family but also for the first responders.” Delehanty said, according to WCVB.
“The fire department did a heroic job today, making a bold decision under emergency circumstances to get this child the treatment he needed as quickly as possible,” Winthrop Police Chief Terrence Delehanty told reporters. We thank them for their service.”
Feeley confessed to sexually assaulting the child multiple times, and the abuse began about a year ago, according to the complaint.
Delehanty said Feeley had previously been placed on leave and is not currently employed by the department.
