Baby who died in MN day care days before birthday ‘could light up an entire room’
A baby unexpectedly died in a Minnesota day care five days before his 1st birthday, police say.
Police in Savage have not released a cause of death for the boy, who they said died “following a medical incident” Sept. 22 at the Rocking Horse Ranch Childcare.
The boy was identified as Harvey Gene Muklebust, an 11-month-old described as being “pure happiness and sunshine from the moment he was born,” according to a GoFundMe.
His birthday would have been Sept. 27, an obituary says.
“Harvey could light up an entire room with his contagious smile and filled everyone’s hearts with joy through his adorable laugh,” according to the obituary.
Autopsy results are expected to take several months, according to police, which said an investigation into the boy’s death “is ongoing and comprehensive.” No charges have been announced.
Day care is investigated, license suspended
Parents whose children attend the day care have been asked by police to “closely monitor their children and seek immediate medical attention if they exhibit altered mental status, unusual behavioral changes, or other concerning symptoms.”
Officers called their guidance a “precautionary measure.”
According to the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families, another baby “exhibited similar and significant respiratory distress symptoms” three days before Harvey’s death.
A June licensing review of the day care center found that its staff had not met state training requirements. It was also met with several other safety violations.
Following the two instances, including Harvey’s death, the day’s license was suspended Sept. 23, records show.
“Based on these findings, DCYF cannot ensure the health and safety of the children served by your program at this time,” state officials said in a letter to the day care. “DCYF has determined that the health, safety, and rights of children in your care are in imminent risk of harm.”
Rocking Horse Ranch, which employs 22 teachers and support staff, has not publicly commented on the boy’s death and its suspension.
“All members of our staff meet or exceed their job qualification requirements as set by the Minnesota Department of Human Services,” its website says.
Savage is about a 20-mile drive southwest from Minneapolis.