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Police investigating after 2-year-old found dead inside car in Gaston County

GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — A 2-year-old was found dead inside a car Thursday afternoon in Gaston County, police said.

Officers responded to the scene at around 4:15 p.m. outside Industrial Fabricators Inc. near York Highway.

Police said they have to treat the death as a homicide but believe that it was a “tragic accident.” The child’s identity has not been released.

“It’s been hard on everyone here. I’ve spoken with Human Resources. They’re trying to do what they can to provide resources. We’ve offered resources as well,” said Capt. Billy Downey. “At this point, it looks like it is an accident. But unfortunately, because of the situation and circumstances, we still have to look into it.”

Investigators said they still have to talk to the child’s parents, co-workers and others they may have spoken to.

Downey issued a caution to parents, saying if for some reason something changes in their routine, they need to make sure they check everything.

No other details have been released at this point.

Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.

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