Investigation Continues into Baby’s Drowning Death

TYLER — Tyler police are continuing their investigation of the death of a youngster who died after drowning in a bathtub. Nine month old Charlotte Rodriguez was found at a home on Hollyoak, just off South Broadway, around 4:15 Wednesday afternoon. Tyler firemen and EMS personnel worked on the youngster. She was taken to Mother Frances Hospital. According to KETK, a neonatal unit from Children’s Medical Hospital in Dallas came to Tyler to pick her up, but her condition was deemed too unstable for her to be transported. Charlotte died at 10:31 Wednesday night.

Investigators say the child’s mother had placed Charlotte in the bathtub with her 22-month-old sister with the shower on, the drain open, and toys in the bathtub. Police say the mother then left the bathroom briefly. According to authorities, when she returned, the bathtub was filling up with water and Charlotte had gone under. Police say the mother believes that the toys or the drain stopper got stuck in the drain and blocked it, causing the bathtub to fill with water. Charlotte’s father was at work when the drowning occurred.

The 22-month-old sibling has been placed with family by CPS until the investigation is complete. They will determine if any charges will be filed at that time. Police say they have been to the Rodriguez residence before on a domestic disturbance call.