A 15-month-old girl has died when she was left in the care of her five-year-old aunt while the baby's teenage mum went to work.
The incident took place in the town of Campoalegre in Huila province, Colombia, on 2nd June.
The tot, named as Jalen Victoria, had been left in the care of the five-year-old by her own mother, who is only 16 years old.
The teenage mum said she had no option other than to go back to work leaving her 15-month-old daughter in the care of her younger sister.
Picture shows little Jalen Victoria, undated. She died while she was cared for by her five-year-old aunt in Campoallegre, Colombia, on Jun.02, 2025. Note: Private photo taken from social media. (Newsflash/NX)
The five-year-old had then decided to give the baby a bath, but accidentally dropped her while removing her from her bed.
During the fall, the baby suffered a head injury and stopped moving.
Realising the injury the child had tried to seek help by raising the alarm with neighbours, and placed the baby in a little chair which she dragged through the streets and was seen by locals.
They then called the emergency services when they realised the child was not showing vital signs.
Medics however were unable to help as attempts to revive the lifeless child were not successful.
Picture shows little Jalen Victoria, undated. She died while she was cared for by her five-year-old aunt in Campoallegre, Colombia, on Jun.02, 2025. Note: Private photo taken from social media. (Newsflash/NX)
The Huila Police Department stated: "The situation was reported by the community of the San Carlos neighbourhood when a five-year-old girl was seen carrying the younger child in a chair, seemingly on her way to a healthcare centre.
"Immediately, a patrol unit arrived at the scene to provide assistance and activate the emergency response protocol.
"According to preliminary information, the minors were reportedly left alone in the house without adult supervision.
Picture shows a post for the little Jalen Victoria, undated. She died while she was cared for by her five-year-old aunt in Campoallegre, Colombia, on Jun.02, 2025. Note: Picture is a screenshot from social media post. (Newsflash/NX)
"For this reason, an investigation is underway to establish precisely the circumstances of time, manner, and place, as well as to determine any possible responsibilities on the part of the parents or caregivers."
The results of an autopsy are still pending.
(MJ Leidig/newsX)