Answers needed in death of 3-year-old on porch

Many in the Mahoning Valley sank into deep despair upon hearing news of a 3-year-old boy who wandered unnoticed onto a frigid porch and died there clad only in his underwear last weekend.

Though it now appears as if Quinton Alli of South Avenue likely died as a result of a misshaped heart, the exact cause of death will not be known until autopsy tests are completed in a few weeks. Yet even if Quinton died of natural causes, the anguish of the family and pain of the community will endure, as will many gnawing questions surrounding the tragedy.

Quinton was one of 11 people living in the South Side home, placed there with his four brothers and sisters by Mahoning County Children Services agency.

No official word

So far, Randy Muth, director of Mahoning CSB, has been mum on the case and its investigation. That leaves the public speculating on the reasoning behind placing five children with a family of six in a relatively small home. Indeed all 11 members of the household reportedly were sleeping in the living room or dining room when young Quinton slipped out the unlocked door to his tragic death.

Clearly, parents and guardians can learn a lesson from this tragedy that supervision of children must be vigilant and nonstop. Doors should never be left unlocked overnight.

The tragedy also raises questions about Children Services’ ability to make placement decisions that guarantee compassionate and safe care for children. Agency leaders should speak up soon to quell any fears or misconceptions stemming from this heartbreaking case.