Brownsville, Texas – June 27, 2025 A wave of sorrow and disbelief has swept through the Brownsville community following the devastating death of 4-year-old Amara Gonzalez, who was found unresponsive inside a daycare van at The Learning Club Preschool on Friday afternoon. Karen Silva Arrested in Daycare Van Incident
According to the Brownsville Police Department (BPD), emergency personnel were dispatched around 4:55 p.m. to the preschool located in the 3900 block of Paredes Line Road. Upon arrival, they found young Amara unresponsive in the back of a van used by the facility. Despite swift intervention by Brownsville EMS, Amara Gonzalez was pronounced dead at the scene.
Karen Silva Arrested and Charged
On Saturday morning, BPD confirmed the arrest of 36-year-old Karen Silva, an employee at The Learning Club Preschool. Silva has been charged with Injury to a Child Causing Death, a first-degree felony under Texas law. She was arraigned on June 28 and is currently being held in custody as the investigation unfolds.
Authorities have not disclosed the specific circumstances of Silva’s involvement, but investigators stated that Silva was responsible for the transportation of children, including Amara Gonzalez, on the day of the incident. It is believed that Amara was inadvertently left inside the hot vehicle for an extended period, leading to her tragic death.
A Community Shattered
The family of Amara Gonzalez is heartbroken. In a brief statement, they described Amara as a “joyful, smart, and loving child who brought light to everyone she met.” Her parents have requested privacy but expressed hopes that her death will serve as a catalyst for change in childcare safety policies.
A makeshift memorial has grown outside the preschool, with community members placing flowers, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes in memory of Amara. A vigil is being organized for Sunday evening in her honor.
“We failed a child today,” said Rev. Luis Martinez, who is helping to lead the vigil. “Amara Gonzalez deserved so much more from the adults trusted to protect her.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Brownsville Police Department, in collaboration with the Cameron County District Attorney’s Office, continues to investigate the full circumstances of the tragedy. Investigators are reviewing security camera footage, staff logs, and conducting interviews with employees of the daycare.
Officials confirmed that Karen Silva was identified as the person responsible for the daycare van in which Amara was left. While Silva currently faces one felony charge, authorities indicated that additional charges may be filed depending on the investigation’s outcome.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Brownsville Police or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at (956) 546-TIPS.
A Call for Change
The death of Amara Gonzalez has reignited urgent conversations around daycare transportation safety. Advocates are calling for mandatory vehicle alarm systems, routine child headcounts, and stricter training requirements for daycare personnel.
Hot vehicle deaths remain a significant threat to children, especially in warmer states like Texas. According to national safety data, Texas leads the U.S. in pediatric vehicular heatstroke deaths — an alarming statistic that now includes Amara’s name.
Rest in peace, sweet Amara Gonzalez.
May your memory be a light that brings change and protection for all children.