Investigation Underway Following Tragic Incident at Local Daycare

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - A tragic incident at a local daycare has prompted an independent investigation by the St. Francois County Sheriff's Department following the death of a three-year-old child.

According to authorities, the Park Hills Police Department contacted the Sheriff's Department on Friday, May 16, requesting an outside agency to take over the investigation to ensure impartiality. The decision stems from the daycare facility being owned by a current member of the Park Hills City Council.

To avoid any conflict of interest and maintain transparency, the City of Park Hills has formally removed itself from the investigation. In response, detectives from the St. Francois County Sheriff's Department launched an inquiry and are actively working to determine the circumstances surrounding the child's death.

In a statement, the Sheriff’s Office expressed its commitment to conducting a thorough and complete investigation, emphasizing the importance of delivering answers to the grieving family and the wider community.

The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say additional details will be shared as they become available.

The Sheriff's Department is asking anyone with information relevant to the case to come forward to aid in the investigative process.

“Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones affected by this heartbreaking event,” the department said. “We are dedicated to ensuring a comprehensive and transparent investigation to determine what led to this tragedy.”

Stay with KFMO B104 News for updates as more information is released.