©camilo jimenez via Unsplash
In Beuvrages, in northern France, two 15-month-old girls were found dead in their beds during a severe heat wave. According to initial findings, the circumstances point to severe dehydration. The parents have been taken into custody and are being questioned.
The tragedy came to light on Monday afternoon when the parents themselves called emergency services. They reportedly stated that they had found their daughters lifeless around 1:30 p.m. Upon arrival, emergency responders found the children in a condition that, according to sources, indicates rigor mortis. This is according to BFMTV.
The tragedy was not limited to the twins. Four other children in the family, between the ages of 3 and 6, were also taken to the hospital because they showed signs of dehydration. According to French media, one child’s condition was so serious that they were transported by trauma helicopter, though all four children are now reportedly out of danger.
Police are now investigating exactly how the situation in the home could have spiraled out of control. They are examining the family’s living conditions and the sequence of events leading up to the discovery of the two girls. The home in Beuvrages has been sealed off for forensic investigation.
The incident follows an exceptionally hot spell in northern France. The Nord department was still under a red heat alert last week but was downgraded to green on Monday after temperatures dropped.
Meanwhile, the case has raised public questions about supervision and prevention during extreme heat, especially for young children who are particularly vulnerable to dehydration. The investigation will determine whether there was any negligence and what responsibility the parents bear.
©camilo jimenez via Unsplash - illustrative image