DeLand, Fl. — A 3-year-old child was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition Sunday afternoon after being left unattended in a vehicle for approximately two hours, according to DeLand Police Department officials.

At approximately 4:32 p.m., DeLand Police received a 911 call reporting an unresponsive child in the 300 block of New York Avenue. The DeLand Fire Department and Volusia County Fire Rescue responded to the scene, where a witness had already begun administering CPR prior to the arrival of first responders. The child was transported by ground to a local hospital in critical condition.

A preliminary investigation revealed that 27-year-old Latana Williams had left the child in her vehicle for approximately two hours while visiting a nearby plasma donation center. Williams was taken into custody and charged with Child Neglect, a first-degree felony. She denied any wrongdoing.

Captain P. Dice, who responded to the scene, said the child’s outlook appeared positive. He used the incident as an opportunity to remind the community about vehicle safety.

“Please take this as a reminder to always check your back seats,” Dice said. “Give yourself enough time when you’re traveling so you’re not in a rush when you arrive at your destination.”

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the DeLand Police Department at 386-626-7400.