Santa Clarita, CA – A concerning incident unfolded near the Six Flags Magic Mountain amusement park in Santa Clarita, California, when a small girl, clad only in a diaper and shirt, was discovered wandering a busy street alone at night. The girl, accompanied by her small dog and carrying an iPad in a backpack, was found by a Good Samaritan around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, prompting an investigation that led to the arrest of her mother on felony child endangerment charges.
The discovery sparked a rapid response from local authorities and raised alarms about child safety in the community.
An Unexpected Encounter on a Busy Street
The young girl, believed to be approximately 6 years old, was spotted by Julius Rivera, who tried to stop her but was unable to before calling law enforcement. Rivera described the scene:
“I was trying to stop her, but then she was just running from me, so I called the cops, and they found her over here,” he said, referring to the parking lot near a Five Below store where the girl was eventually taken into protective custody.
Rivera further detailed, “She was just wearing a diaper and a shirt, and a backpack, and she had her little dog and an iPad.” This unusual sight quickly drew the attention of deputies and local media, prompting an urgent investigation.
Mother Found Intoxicated and Charged with Felony Child Endangerment
Law enforcement identified the girl’s mother as Michelle Negrellos, 28. After using the iPad to help identify the girl’s name and address, deputies arrived at the residence and found Negrellos asleep. Authorities observed that she “displayed symptoms of intoxication, including slurred speech, impaired coordination, and a strong odor of alcohol,” and she appeared unaware her daughter was missing.
Negrellos was promptly taken into custody and charged with felony child endangerment. According to the Law & Crime report, the investigation is ongoing, with deputies noting the girl may have developmental challenges. The child was safely released to her father, whose identity has not been disclosed publicly.
Community Concern and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has stirred concern throughout the Santa Clarita community given the neglect implicated in the young girl’s vulnerable situation. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department spokesperson commented,
“This is still an active investigation. There are no updates at this time.”
Authorities continue to evaluate the circumstances surrounding the case to ensure the child’s safety and address any further concerns of neglect or abuse.
Key Facts About the Incident
- The girl was found alone around 10 p.m. near Six Flags Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita Valley, about 35 miles northeast of Los Angeles.
- She was wearing only a diaper and shirt, carrying an iPad inside a backpack, and accompanied by a small dog.
- The mother, Michelle Negrellos, was found intoxicated at home and appeared unaware that her daughter was missing.
- Negrellos was arrested on felony child endangerment charges.
- The girl was released to her father following police intervention.
Incidents such as this underscore the importance of community vigilance and timely intervention in situations where children’s safety is at risk. Awareness and prompt action can be the key to protecting vulnerable minors.
What do you think about this incident? Have you ever witnessed a similar case or are concerned about child safety in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
