Alabama politicians weigh in on hot car death of 3-year-old boy

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — Legislators in Alabama are offering their thoughts on the recent death of a 3-year-old child who was left to die in a hot car in Bessemer.

On Tuesday, Ke’Torrius “KJ” Starkes was found alone inside a car that was turned off and had the windows rolled up, according the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.

The Birmingham Police Department stated Starkes was left inside the vehicle while in the care of a third-party contracted worker through the Alabama Department of Human Resources. That person was taken to BPD Headquarters for questioning. The BPD stated they were cooperative.

“A child in DHR custody was being transported by a contract provider when the incident occurred,” a DHR spokesperson said in a statement. “The provider has terminated their employee. Due to confidentiality, DHR cannot comment further regarding the identity of the child or the exact circumstances.”

In the wake of Starkes’ death, several state politicians have offered their thoughts and condolences to the boy and his family.

“As a mother and as the Senator for the district where this tragedy happened, I am devastated by the death of little KeTorrius Starks Jr.,” Sen. Merika Coleman said. “We need answers, and we may need to examine state law to make sure this never happens again. My prayers are with his family.”

Rep. Ontario Tillman said he would seek more information into what happened.

“My initial reaction is one of shock and confusion. How and why did this happen,” Tillman said. “I am more concerned about the family of this young child, dealing with this tragedy moment. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family.”

 Rep. Ginny Shaver gave a different perspective, taking the blame off DHR.

“This horrific tragedy appears to be unintentional negligence of one person, not the Department of Human Resources,” Shaver said. “It is my understanding it was not a DHR employee but a local service provider. Jefferson County has contracted with this provider since 2006.”

The case remains under investigation.