Incident Overview

In a troubling incident in Lehigh Acres, Florida, a mother named Marianne Isnar was arrested for allegedly leaving her two children unattended in a sweltering vehicle while she shopped. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office reported that the incident occurred on one of the hottest days of 2025, with outdoor temperatures reaching 98 degrees Fahrenheit. The car’s internal temperature quickly soared to 100 degrees due to the windows being rolled up and the engine turned off.

Details of the Incident

According to officials, Isnar left her children in the car while she visited a Dollar Tree store. Despite her claim that she was only inside for five minutes, deputies confirmed she was absent for 25 minutes. Upon arrival, law enforcement found the children strapped in their seatbelts inside the overheated vehicle. The swift rise in temperature posed a significant risk to the children’s safety.

Legal Consequences

Marianne Isnar was charged with child neglect for leaving her children unattended in a motor vehicle. She was released from jail on a $1,500 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on August 11. This case highlights the legal repercussions parents can face when endangering their children’s lives through negligence.

Sheriff’s Statement

Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that leaving children in a hot car is unacceptable and dangerous. He warned that authorities will not hesitate to hold individuals accountable for such actions. Sheriff Marceno expressed relief that the children were unharmed and reiterated the importance of parental responsibility during extreme weather conditions.

Public Awareness and Safety Measures

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with leaving children unattended in vehicles, especially during heatwaves. Parents and guardians are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize their children’s safety by never leaving them alone in cars, regardless of the duration or weather conditions.