Baby’s death still being investigated

By Independent staff

GALLUP — Police are awaiting toxicology results to determine what caused the sudden death of a 1-year-old Gallup baby who was under the supervision of a baby sitter.

Emergency personnel were dispatched to the 700 Block of Kevin Court, Tuesday, at about 3:20 p.m. in reference to a young child who was not breathing. The child was later confirmed dead at the scene by a medical investigator.

Sgt. Erin Toadlena-Pablo, a spokeswoman for the Gallup Police Department, said the initial autopsy revealed an irregularity in the baby’s airway; however, the irregularities had been apparent since the child’s birth and most likely did not contribute to her death.

She said additional tests, including a toxicology exam, will be conducted to learn more about what may have caused the baby’s death.

“The case is still under investigation,” Toadlena-Pablo said.
Once the investigation is complete, officials will forward their findings to the district attorney who will ultimately decide if criminal charges are warranted.