Tragedy in Cleveland: Mother Leaves Toddler Alone for 10 Days While on Vacation
CLEVELAND, OH — A 31-year-old mother has been arrested after allegedly leaving her 16-month-old daughter home alone for ten days while she went on vacation.
Kristel Candelario, the child’s mother, reportedly left the infant inside their Cleveland home without any supervision, food, or water as she traveled to Puerto Rico and Detroit for a getaway. When she returned ten days later, she discovered her daughter unresponsive on the couch.
Paramedics were called immediately, but tragically, the child was already dead.
According to the medical examiner, the cause of death was dehydration and starvation—a result of complete abandonment. The apartment showed no signs that the child had access to food or proper care during her mother’s absence.
Neighbors said they had no idea the child was alone, and many are now devastated by the horrifying revelation. “I can’t believe someone could leave their baby like that,” one neighbor said tearfully. “She was just a little girl.”
Candelario is now facing multiple charges, including aggravated murder, child endangerment, and felony neglect. Prosecutors described the act as “deliberate and inexcusable.”
The case has drawn national attention, with many calling for the harshest possible sentence. A memorial has grown outside the home, with candles, stuffed animals, and messages demanding justice for the innocent child.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities say more charges may be added as the case develops.