The Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) investigated 276 child deaths in 2024 and determined 59 were a result of abuse or neglect.
The Annual Report of Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities in Indiana details the circumstances leading to each fatality and highlights the risk factors that put children in danger. Indiana code requires DCS to produce the annual report.
According to the report, 18 of the fatalities were due to abuse, and 41 were the result of neglect. The majority (71%) of the fatalities involved a child 3 years old or younger.
Causes of death were taken from state death certificates. Death by weapon, including body part, was the leading cause of death, listed in 20% of cases. Unsafe sleep conditions, drowning and poisoning, including overdose or acute intoxication, were also leading factors.
DCS reviews all child fatalities that meet the following circumstances:
- For children under 3 years of age: The death is sudden, unexpected or unexplained, or involves allegations of abuse and neglect.
- For children age 3 or older: The death involves allegations of abuse or neglect.
The full report can be found here.
More information on child abuse and neglect prevention can be found here.
Marshall County Council set to address budget, grants, and economic development tonight
Ryan Welch sworn in as newest Plymouth Park Board Member
Plymouth City Council to take up controversial 900-acre annexation & rezoning tonight
Plymouth and Culver Street Departments remind residents: keep leaves at the curb, not in the street
High-paying jobs in advanced manufacturing with Wright Industries expansion
Keys to Christmas at The REES brings holiday music and dueling pianos to downtown Plymouth
Marshall County Historical Society Museum kicks off Holiday Sale Nov. 10
Conservation officers remind hunters to prioritize safety during deer season
