Attorney: Audio Shows DHR Worker's Apology for 3-Year-Old's Death

Tragedy and Apology: A Contracted Worker's Account of Leaving a 3-Year-Old in a Car

A disturbing incident has come to light involving the tragic death of a 3-year-old child, Ke'Torrius Starkes Jr., who was left unattended in a vehicle for an extended period. According to reports, an audio recording was obtained by WVTM 13, featuring a conversation between the child’s family and a contracted worker from the Department of Human Resources (DHR). This worker is accused of leaving the child in the car, ultimately leading to his death.

The child, known as KJ, was found deceased last week following a visitation with his father. The incident has sparked outrage and sorrow within the community, as details emerge about what led to the tragedy. The family, represented by attorney Courtney French, shared a recorded phone call with WVTM 13 that includes a conversation between KJ’s father and aunt with the worker, who has since been fired but not charged.

In the audio, the worker expressed deep remorse, stating, “I got sidetracked. I stopped to get something to eat and when I came out, instead of going left to the daycare, I got a call that said I didn't have a case. I instantly said in my head, ‘well, I'm done for the day. I’m going to go home.’” She then admitted, “I didn’t know he was in there. I forgot he was back there. I'm so sorry.”

The child’s aunt confronted the worker, saying, “Baby, you got us sick over here, we can't breathe. You left a three-year-old in a car. He couldn't defend himself.” She added, “This baby died in a car, he suffocated. (pause) He didn't have no help no nothing, there were child safety locks on the doors. You didn't think to look in the back seat?”

The worker responded, “No ma'am, I did not.”

French explained that KJ had completed his weekly visitation with his father around 12:30 p.m., and the contracted employee was responsible for taking him back to daycare. However, the child remained in the back seat of the car until the daycare called to inquire about him.

According to French, KJ was three years old and could speak, even knowing how to unfasten his car seat. However, the worker had activated the childproof locks, preventing the child from exiting the vehicle. “There was no way for him to get out of the car to open the door,” French stated.

French also mentioned that he has written a letter to the Department of Human Resources, but neither they nor Covenant Services have reached out to the family. He raised questions about the timeline of events, asking, “Is there a possibility that KJ could have been dead well before 5:30 p.m.?” He emphasized the importance of the coroner’s final report, which will determine the cause, manner, and time of death.

Jefferson County has used Covenant Services since 2006 under a vendor agreement, with each county developing its own services. WVTM 13 attempted to contact the employee at her residence but received no response.

This story is still unfolding, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Stay informed through local news sources and official channels for the latest developments.