ARREST MADE IN CHILD NEGLECT CASE AFTER TODDLER FOUND DEAD AND TWIN SIBLING HOSPITALIZED

Authorities have arrested a 25-year-old mother, identified as Valencia Duke, following an investigation into severe child neglect involving 13-month-old twins.

According to officials, emergency responders were called to a residence where one child was found deceased and the other was discovered in critical condition and suffering from severe malnourishment.

Law enforcement agencies have not released full details regarding the timeline leading up to the discovery, but confirmed that an investigation is ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the children’s care and supervision.

Medical personnel transported the surviving twin to a hospital for urgent treatment, where the child remains under intensive care.

Investigators are continuing to review evidence and gather statements as they work to determine how long the children were left unattended and what factors contributed to the outcome.

Authorities have emphasized that the case is active and that additional findings may be released as the investigation progresses.

The incident has deeply affected the local community, prompting discussions about child welfare systems, intervention protocols, and the importance of early reporting in suspected neglect cases.

Officials and advocacy groups have reiterated the need for awareness and support mechanisms to protect vulnerable children and prevent similar tragedies.

As the investigation continues, prosecutors are expected to determine appropriate charges based on medical findings, forensic evidence, and witness statements.

For now, one child remains in critical condition while the community mourns the loss of the other twin and awaits further updates from authorities.