Months after a heartbreaking tragedy in Veyo, a local mother is now facing criminal charges connected to the death of her 3-year-old son, who was left inside a hot vehicle in early September.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, 29-year-old Celine Ashley Switlick has been charged with child abuse homicide with criminal negligence, a second-degree felony.
The incident happened on September 1, 2025, outside the family’s apartment complex. Investigators say Switlick returned home with her husband and two children that afternoon. Her husband reportedly brought their older child inside first, followed shortly by Switlick—unaware that their youngest was still buckled in his car seat.
Hours later, deputies were called to the home after the boy was found unresponsive inside the parked vehicle. Despite emergency efforts, the child could not be revived.
Authorities estimate the car’s interior temperature climbed above 130°F, and court documents suggest Switlick passed by the vehicle multiple times throughout the day, not realizing her son remained inside.
In interviews with investigators, Switlick reportedly expressed deep remorse, admitting responsibility for what she described as a tragic mistake.
Local emergency officials have since renewed warnings about the dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles, even for short periods.
“It’s something no parent ever wants to imagine,” said Chief Guthrie of Northwest Fire Special Services. “Heat builds up fast, and even mild outdoor temperatures can turn deadly inside a car.”
Switlick’s initial court appearance is scheduled for December 9, 2025, in St. George District Court.
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