3-year-old hit by a car on highway after being left unattended in hotel room
A three-year-old boy was hit by a car on the highway after his mother allegedly left him unattended alongside a two-year-old in a hotel room—before they walked out by themselves.
According to a Facebook post by Jefferson Hills Police Department, their mother, Shawnae Galberth of Pennsylvania, was taken into custody and charged with two counts of felony endangering the welfare of children.
Authorities said the two kids stepped out of the Econo Lodge and headed to the northbound lanes of Route 51 together.
"The juvenile victim and other child exited the room and subsequently walked along State Route 51 before one of the juveniles was struck by a passing vehicle," the police said.
The three-year-old was transported to an area hospital in critical condition. Police said that the vehicle's operator is cooperating with the investigation.
The roadway will be closed for an extended period, authorities added.
Galberth has been taken to the Allegheny County Jail.