Itâs been a particularly harsh winter in many parts of the United States. Even those who typically donât see cold temperatures and snow have experienced an arctic blast in the last week. Texas isnât known for snowy winters, but a storm hit the southern part of the state earlier this week, dumping a reported four inches of snow in the Houston metro area.
The snowy weather mixed with too much alcohol reportedly proved to be a dangerous combination for 31-year-old mother Ayana McClinton, who was found passed out on a snowy sidewalk alongside her two babies. According to ABC 13, deputies from the Harris County Sheriffâs Office responded about 6:40 a.m. January 21, 2025, after receiving a disturbing call.
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âThe caller reported an adult female and two babies were laying on the sidewalk. Deputies responded and determined the babies were 2 months old and 1 year old,â Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez shared on Facebook.
Gonzalez added, âMother showed signs of intoxication. EMS arrived and quickly rendered aid to the two babies who were suffering from cold-related injuries.â
ABC 13 reported that McClinton allegedly decided to nap on the sidewalk in the 28-degree weather. She reportedly had an open alcohol container nearby. Deputies arrested her, and she faces two charges of child endangerment, according to court documents obtained by the news outlet.
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Emergency responders treated the children for cold-related injuries.
Many people commented on Gonzalesâ Facebook post, hoping the children will not suffer long-term effects.
A former child welfare worker wrote, âAnd this is why I still suffer with trauma (PTSD)from being on the front line at CPS back in the day. You canât unsee what you saw especially (child death). Thank God EMS arrived on time.â
âGreat job contacting 911 right away and making a decision that mom couldnât make. Mom, rock bottom was when you failed to make healthy decisions for yourself,” someone else commented. “Right now you are creating a rock bottom lifestyle for 2 kids that did not ask for it. I worked with substance abuse and child welfare and I can tell you that there is no excuse for behaviors like this. What you do with your own life is your own responsibility. If you canât make healthy decisions for your children then you have to bring them to someone who can.â
Gonzales shared a message with residents later in the day urging them to remain safe. He wrote, âOur teammates brave the elements, regardless of the weather. With snow all around us, enjoy the beauty of winter while staying safe on the roads. Please drive carefully, keep warm, and take it easy out there!â