Baby Boy Dies on First Day at Unlicensed Day Care Center

A Brooklyn, NY, family is mourning the loss of their 3-month-old son after he died on his first day at an unlicensed day care facility yesterday.

According to police, Karl Towndrow's mother dropped the baby off at SoHo Child Care that morning, saying she'd return to feed the baby from a bottle of breast milk that she left there. The day care owner, Maryellen Strautmanis, fed the baby, tried, unsuccessfully, to burp him, and then put him down for a nap. Strautmanis said Karl was fussy for about 10 minutes and then quiet. When she went to check on him 15 minutes later, she discovered him unresponsive, and his lips were blue. She tried to perform CPR but was untrained in the method and called 911. Karl was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Medical examiners are investigating the death and say the baby showed no signs of an airway obstruction, bruises, or trauma. No charges have been filed.

The child care facility was operating without a license. According to the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, city regulations limit group day care centers to 12 children. There were 14 kids in addition to Karl at SoHo Child Care yesterday. The department released a statement saying, "We are saddened and concerned about this infant death and are working closely with law enforcement and ACS on an investigation."

In a statement released by Karl's parents they wrote, "Karl's parents appreciate the kind words and condolences they have received. He was full of love and was treasured by all that met him. At this time, his parents ask for privacy as they grieve his short, wonderful life."