An infant has died several days after becoming unresponsive at Pittman Park Education Center (PPEC) in Statesboro. On Tuesday, February 12, 2025, Bulloch County EMS responded to a call at the daycare, located at 1102 Fair Road, around 12:30 p.m.
An infant was transported to East Georgia Regional Medical Center and subsequently transferred to Memorial Medical Center Children's Hospital in Savannah. The child passed away on Monday, February 17th.
The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) released a statement on Tuesday, February 18th, confirming the incident.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident reported by the Pittman Park Education Center in Statesboro that occurred on February 12, 2025, involving an infant in their care," said Reg Griffin, Chief Communication Officer for DECAL. "According to initial reports, the child was placed in a bouncy seat and later became unresponsive while being attended to by staff. Emergency services were immediately contacted, and the child was transported to the hospital. Despite medical efforts, the child sadly passed away on February 17, 2025. This is an open investigation. At DECAL, our top priority is the health and safety of Georgia’s youngest learners.”
Pittman Park United Methodist Church Pastor Jonathan Smith also released a statement expressing the community's grief.
"Our hearts are heavy as we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of our precious PPEC children," Smith stated. "Our entire Pittman Park Education Center (PPEC) family is grieving alongside this child’s loved ones during this devastating time."
The pastor asked the community to join them in prayer for the family, offering "comfort, strength, and peace in the midst of unimaginable loss." He added, "Please be assured that we are working closely with all necessary agencies to navigate this situation with care, compassion, and sensitivity. Our priority remains the well-being of our children, families, and staff as we move through this difficult time together."
The circumstances surrounding the infant's death remain under investigation by DECAL.
