Three-year-old Ke’Torrius Starks Jr. died in Birmingham, Alabama, after being kept inside a car for more than five hours on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, while in the custody of the state Department of Human Resources (DHR).
According to local reports, the minor was in the vehicle from approximately 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., with outside temperatures of 108°F (42°C) raising the interior of the car to over 150°F, causing his death from extreme heat.
The tragedy of Ke’Torrius Starks Jr.
Ke’Torrius was found lifeless shortly before 6:00 p.m. outside a residence on Pine Tree Drive.
The minor’s family, represented by attorney Courtney French, explained that Ke’Torrius was in temporary custody due to indications of drug use in his home.
On the day of the incident, he was picked up from a day care center at 9:00 a.m. to attend a supervised visit with the biological father, which concluded around 11:30 a.m..
Dismissal and opening of investigation
Instead of returning him to the day care center, the worker hired by Covenant Services Inc. – in charge of the transportation – made several personal stops: he bought food, visited a tobacco store and returned home, leaving the child alone in the car.
This negligence resulted in a tragedy that many have described as preventable and cruel.
Following the incident, the worker responsible was immediately fired, and DHR announced that state investigations into the case are already underway.
However, for confidentiality reasons, the agency has not provided further details about the identity of the child or the specific circumstances of the transport.
Impact for the U.S. Hispanic community.
This case resonates deeply with Hispanic families with children in child protective systems:
It underscores the need to demand strict and responsible protocols in the handling of minors in state custody.
It reveals failures when the system, designed to protect, acts under negligence, especially in high temperature contexts.
In Hispanic communities in cities such as Miami, Chicago or New York, where many children have contact with social services, this episode warns of the importance of being informed and exercising family vigilance.
Cada vez son más las muertes de pequeños que son 'olvidados' o 'encerrados' en coches mientras imperan las altas temperaturas
Lessons and recommended actions
If your children are in DHR or social services custody, make sure you know:
Which supplier is authorized to transport them.
Confirmation of the destination (day care, family visit, etc.).
Demand transparency: in case of delay or departure from the planned itinerary, you must have access to immediate information.
On hot days – especially when the heat index exceeds 100°F – the requirement for preventive measures on vehicles and supervision must be rigorous.
Here is a news video of the tragedy of little Ke’Torrius Starks Jr.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
