HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA – September 26, 2025 - The Hollister Police Department responded and investigated the unexpected death of a 9-month-old infant.
On Thursday, September 25, 2025, at approximately 7:48 a.m., officers from the Hollister Police Department responded to an emergency “echo call” reporting an unresponsive infant with no pulse and no signs of breathing, indicating a life-threatening situation.
Hollister Police officers, along with personnel from the Hollister Fire Department and American Medical Response (AMR), arrived within minutes. They discovered a 9-month-old infant who was unconscious, not breathing, and without a pulse. Emergency responders immediately initiated life-saving measures, which continued enroute to the hospital. Despite their efforts, the infant was pronounced deceased at the hospital.
Preliminary information indicates the infant had been sleeping on a couch before being found unresponsive by a family member. The Hollister Police Department, in collaboration with the San Benito County Sheriff's Office, has launched a joint investigation. The investigation will explore all possible causes, which may include criminal negligence and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
The Hollister Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the family and all those affected by this tragic event.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Detective Morgan at 831-638-4331. Persons wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 3,000 infants die each year from sudden unexpected infant death (SUID), which includes SIDS. It remains the leading cause of death among children aged 1 month to 1 year. The CDC recommends placing infants on their backs to sleep, as this position carries the lowest risk for SIDS. Sleeping on the stomach or side increases the risk significantly.
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Prepared by: A. Melgoza, Sergeant
Approved by: R. Betanio, Captain
