The “Princess Barbie” daycare center, located in Stanley, Rose-Hill, was ordered to close its doors the day after the death of a three-month-old baby. The daycare center was operating illegally and was not registered with the Ministry of Child Development. A police investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the death of little Grace Cadapen. Her mother had dropped her off on Monday, October 2nd, at the “Princess Barbie” facility, but in the afternoon, one of the staff members informed her that the child was no longer responding.
The baby was transported to Victoria Hospital in Candos where her death was confirmed.
The autopsy report concluded that the girl died from asphyxiation caused by the contents of her stomach.
Yohann Cadapen, the baby’s father, stated in an interview with RadioPlus on Tuesday afternoon, October 3rd, that this tragedy is even more devastating for their family because it was little Grace’s first day at this daycare center.
When approached for a reaction, Rita Venkatasawmy, Ombudsperson for Children, affirmed that authorities will be uncompromising regarding daycare centers that do not meet established criteria. She urges parents to be extra vigilant when registering their children in a daycare center.
