Tye, Texas – A harrowing incident has shaken the quiet community of Tye as local law enforcement officials arrested a woman early Friday morning on charges related to child abandonment, neglect, and endangerment. According to the Tye Police Department (TPD), the arrest followed a disturbing discovery involving two young children who were left unsupervised in a hazardous environment.
The TPD responded to an assault call on Scott Street at approximately 1:14 a.m. on May 23, 2025. What began as a routine response escalated into a complex investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Merkel Police Department, the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office, and Child Protective Services (CPS). Authorities quickly uncovered what they described as a “troubling situation.”
According to the police report, a 30-year-old woman and two individuals under the age of 21 left their two children — ages 9 and 1 — home alone while they went out drinking. The older child was tasked with caring for the infant in the absence of adult supervision. The lack of responsible oversight was only the tip of the iceberg.
During a CPS inspection of the residence, investigators discovered drugs, alcohol, and drug paraphernalia within easy reach of the children. Authorities say the environment was not only unfit for habitation by minors but posed an imminent danger to their physical and emotional well-being.
“This is a heartbreaking case,” said a spokesperson for the Tye Police Department. “No child should ever be left in a situation where their safety is at risk — especially when drugs and alcohol are involved. We are thankful that this situation was brought to light before something even more tragic occurred.”
As a result of the investigation, two women have been arrested and charged with Felony Child Abandonment, Neglect, and Endangerment. The names of the suspects have not yet been released, pending formal arraignment. In addition, a male suspect is facing charges of Family Violence – Continuous Assault, stemming from a related incident connected to the same address.
The children have since been placed in the care of Child Protective Services, where they will undergo evaluation to ensure their safety and well-being moving forward.
Community leaders in Tye are expressing concern over the growing number of cases involving child neglect intertwined with substance abuse. “This case is a wake-up call,” said a representative from a local family support nonprofit. “We must do more to educate and support families who are struggling, and we need to ensure that children are never left in these dangerous environments.”
The Tye Police Department has vowed to continue its investigation and pursue all parties responsible to the fullest extent of the law. They are also urging members of the community to report any suspicions of child endangerment immediately, emphasizing that proactive action can prevent tragedy.
As the case unfolds, it serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities children face and the critical role of law enforcement, child services, and community vigilance in safeguarding their futures.