Florida baby rescued from hot car after mom passes out inside, deputies say

COLUMBIA COUNTY, Fla. — A Florida mom is behind bars after deputies rescued her baby from a hot car.

The Columbia County Sheriff's Office arrested Kristina Bowermaster on child neglect charges Sunday after her 1-year-old was found inside the vehicle, according to a police report. The woman also was found inside the car, passed out on the passenger side, authorities said.

Deputies responded to 727 SW Mauldin Avenue after the Columbia County Sheriff's Office was notified by OnStar vehicle assistance that there was a child making noises inside a non-running vehicle.

A deputy arrived to find the child playing with the keys of the vehicle, authorities said. The deputy was able to open the door of the vehicle due to the window being opened 3 to 4 inches, the incident report said.

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Deputies said both the mother and child were drenched in sweat, and there were no drinks inside the vehicle. Additionally, the child's diaper was so full that it had begun to overflow, authorities said.

Bowermaster reportedly refused medical attention for herself and the child. However, she made several comments that she felt dizzy, thirsty and light-headed, according to police. She added that the last thing she remembered was leaving Winn-Dixie at 3:01 p.m., authorities said.

The Department of Children and Families was notified and responded to the scene.

Upon searching Bowermaster's home, deputies said they uncovered drug paraphernalia related to the consumption of meth/crack. At this time, DCF findings have revealed "abundant child neglect," officials said. The child was taken into custody until a family member could arrive to assume care.

Bowermaster also was arrested March 18 and charged with child abuse after she was allegedly found asleep behind the wheel with a young child in the back seat.

Cox Media Group