A Virginia woman has been arrested in connection with Tuesday’s hot-car deaths of an infant girl and dog.
The investigation started after an 80-year-old man reportedly brought the deceased 11-month-old to Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital in a plastic bag. Police believe Kristen Graham, 40, left the baby and a dog in a car for six hours before she was awoken by a phone call and discovered their bodies, according to WTKR.
Graham allegedly provided two stories about what happened. Graham claimed she was in the car with the infant, but she also stated that she also left her in the car because she was asleep, WAVY reported.
Graham reportedly drove to Newport News with the infant and dog to drop off cigarettes and juice to a friend. She returned home the following day and allegedly left the child and dog in the car with the windows rolled up. WTKR reported that investigators discovered the dog’s body in a bathtub.
According to WVEC, Graham stated that she does not remember anything regarding their deaths aside from pulling into the driveway. However, she allegedly admitted to taking Gabapentin, a pain medication, before traveling to Newport News.
WVEC reported that Graham had been taking care of the baby for two days, which she had done before. The baby’s mother, a 17 year old, lives in York County.
Graham remains jailed on charges of felony child abuse and animal cruelty in the case. However, she could face homicide charges after an autopsy is completed.
According to No Heat Stroke, the 11-month-old girl is the 26th child to die in a hot car this year. In 2022, 33 children died of vehicular heatstroke.
For the latest true crime and justice news, subscribe to the ‘Crime Stories with Nancy Grace’ podcast. Listen to the latest episode:
[Featured image: Kristen Graham/York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office]
