SPRING VALLEY, NY — Local and county authorities are continuing to investigate the death of an infant who was found unresponsive at a Spring Valley residence earlier this month, an incident that also led to a
wide-ranging inspection and the discovery of numerous building and safety code violations at the property.
According to police, emergency responders were dispatched to the home after receiving a call reporting an unresponsive baby. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, the infant was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police have not released the infant’s age or gender, and officials said no arrests have been made. The Rockland County Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death.
Authorities said the investigation remains active.
When officers arrived at the residence, several other children were present inside the home. Police said the children were evaluated and found to be in good health. As part of standard procedure in cases involving the death of a child, Child Protective Services was notified and is involved in a parallel review.
In the days following the incident, the Rockland County Office of Buildings and Codes conducted a comprehensive inspection of the property. County officials reported dozens of violations, including illegal conversions of the garage and basement into living space, electrical and fire-safety concerns, blocked or unsafe exits, and the absence of required smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
As a result of the inspection, violations were issued to the property owner, along with significant fines. Enforcement actions are ongoing, and county officials said corrective measures will be required before the property can be legally occupied.
Authorities emphasized that, at this stage of the investigation, there is no indication that the condition of the home directly caused the infant’s death. However, officials said the findings underscore ongoing concerns about unsafe housing conditions and illegal conversions in the region.
Local officials also confirmed they are reviewing whether the residence was operating as an unlicensed or illegal daycare, a matter that remains under investigation.
Police said additional details will be released once the medical examiner’s findings are complete and all investigative steps have been taken. Officials declined further comment, citing the sensitivity of the case and the need to protect the privacy of the family involved.