Family Seeks Answers After Toddler's Death at YWCA in New Britain

Tragic Incident at YWCA Childcare Center Leaves Family in Shock

A 2-year-old boy lost his life after an incident at the YWCA childcare center in New Britain, Connecticut. The tragedy has left the family devastated and the community in shock. Shamyra Cooke, the boy’s mother, described the emotional toll of losing her son, Saunti, who had been a healthy child and had attended the daycare since he was just a few months old.

Cooke shared her heart-wrenching experience, explaining that she dropped Saunti off at the daycare in the morning. Later that day, she received a call from the staff saying that her son had choked on a piece of meatball. According to her, the staff told her that Saunti was okay and breathing, but they urged her to come as soon as possible. When she arrived, she found first responders performing CPR on her son.

“I work at a hospital, I know how this goes,” Cooke said. “When they closed the door on me, once the EMS closed the door on me, I already knew.”

Emergency crews were called to the childcare center, according to a statement from the City of New Britain. A 911 call was received at 11:44 am for a child choking at the YWCA, and the New Britain Fire Department, New Britain Emergency Medical Services, and New Britain Police Department all responded.

The YWCA provided a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss. They emphasized that their staff followed all emergency procedures, including administering age-appropriate first aid and calling 911. However, Cooke disputes this claim, stating that the daycare staff did not keep her informed throughout the process.

“All we got was a ‘sorry’ from the director, and now I have to bury my 2-year-old son,” she said. Her aunt, Angela Cooke, echoed these sentiments, adding, “We need answers. We need answers.”

The facility remained closed as of Wednesday morning due to the incident. The YWCA stated that they would also be closed on Thursday. They offered grief counseling and support resources for staff and families, as well as for children who may need help processing the tragedy.

The state Department of Children and Families confirmed that it is investigating the incident, working alongside the Office of Early Childhood and law enforcement. Meanwhile, the City of New Britain said its police department did not have an open investigation, but the case remains under review.

As of Wednesday morning, the cause of death had not been officially confirmed. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner mentioned that an autopsy was being conducted. The family has hired an attorney to seek clarity and justice.

Mayor Erin Stewart released a statement on social media, expressing her heartfelt condolences. “My heart breaks as I write this. As a mother of two young children myself, the very thought of one of them being taken from this earth is paralyzing.”

The incident has raised concerns about the protocols and training required for childcare workers in Connecticut. According to the Office of Early Childhood, there are specific requirements, including CPR and first aid certifications, as well as health and safety training. Childcare centers must also have policies in place for emergencies.

Saunti’s family continues to cope with the unimaginable loss. Cooke struggles to imagine a life without her son, recalling the joy of their recent trip to the beach, where he touched the sand for the first time. “That was his first vacation and two days into daycare, he’s gone,” she said. “This is just a nightmare.”

The community has rallied around the family, with loved ones gathering outside the YWCA to show support and demand accountability. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on seeking answers and ensuring that such a tragedy does not happen again.