Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Strikes in Lakeside Christmas Morning

A weeks-old baby was found not breathing Christmas morning by its parents in Lakeside, and died several hours later.

The sad scene unfolded in an apartment at 12709 Mapleview Street, near the Lakeside Rodeo Grounds. Early indications were the infant died of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), according to the county Medical Examiner.

But the case was, per state law, investigated today by San Diego County Sheriff's homicide detectives.

Heartland Fire requested sheriff's officials assist them on a medical aid call about 10 a.m. at Mapleview Apartments near Mapleview and Ashwood streets in Lakeside.

The baby, whose gender was not given, was taken to Sharp Grossmont Hospital where it died.

One of the leading causes of death among babies one month through one year of age in the United States, incidences of SIDS are thoroughly investigated. The investigation involves examination of the death scene, a complete autopsy and a clinical history review.

SIDS is diagnosed only after all other possible causes of death have been ruled out.

The couple also has a 2-year-old daughter.

-City News Service