Lake County Deputy Under Fire After Child Found Alone Near Lowell Train Tracks

LOWELL, Ind. — A Lake County Sheriff’s officer is facing a felony neglect charge after authorities say his young son was found wandering alone late at night near railroad tracks in Lowell.

The alarming incident unfolded shortly after 11 p.m. Sunday when Lowell police received reports of a small child walking unattended near the intersection of East Main Street and Mill Street. Responding officers quickly arrived and located the child before he could reach the nearby railroad tracks.

According to police, the child was wearing only an oversized sweatshirt and was partially unclothed when officers found him. Investigators estimated the boy to be approximately 4 years old.

Officers Race to Protect Child From Potential Tragedy

Authorities said the child appeared unable to communicate verbally, making it difficult for officers to identify him or determine where he lived.

Concerned for his safety, officers immediately removed the child from the area and transported him to a local hospital for evaluation.

The discovery raised urgent questions about how a young child had managed to leave home unnoticed and travel through the neighborhood alone late at night.

With the child safe, police began searching the area for family members and anyone who could help identify him.

Investigation Leads Police to Child’s Family

As officers canvassed the neighborhood, they learned about a child who matched the boy’s description. Residents informed investigators that the child typically lived nearby but was believed to be staying with his father at another residence.

Police were eventually able to contact the child’s mother while continuing their efforts to determine what had happened.

The investigation soon led officers to the home of the child’s father, identified as 38-year-old Ean Hescher.

Father’s Explanation Raises Questions

According to police reports, Hescher told investigators that he and his son had gone to sleep at approximately 4:30 p.m. Sunday.

When officers informed him that the child had been found near railroad tracks, Hescher reportedly suggested that the boy may have left the residence through a rear door without his knowledge.

Police said Hescher allegedly remarked that the location where the child was found made sense because the boy may have been attempting to go to his mother’s house.

Investigators continued examining the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine how long the child had been outside and whether adequate supervision had been provided.

Police Describe Home Conditions as “Deplorable”

While conducting their investigation, officers entered the residence and documented what they described as “deplorable” living conditions.

Authorities have not publicly released detailed information regarding the condition of the home. However, the observations became part of the overall investigation that ultimately led to criminal charges.

In addition to concerns inside the residence, police reported finding a small dog left inside a vehicle parked outside the home.

No immediate information was released regarding the animal’s condition.

Felony Neglect Charge Filed

Following the investigation, Hescher was arrested and booked on a felony count of neglect of a dependent.

The charge stems from allegations that the child was left in circumstances that endangered his health or safety.

Court proceedings will determine the outcome of the case as prosecutors review evidence gathered by investigators.

As with all criminal cases, the charge remains an allegation, and Hescher is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Sheriff’s Department Places Officer on Leave

The Lake County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that Hescher has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Department officials stated that Hescher has been employed with the agency since 2014.

Administrative leave is a common step taken when law enforcement officers face criminal allegations, allowing investigations to proceed without the employee performing active duties.

Officials have not announced how long the leave will remain in effect.

Community Reacts to Troubling Allegations

News of the arrest has generated significant attention throughout Lake County, particularly because the accused is a law enforcement officer entrusted with protecting public safety.

Many residents expressed relief that the child was found before suffering any injuries. Others raised concerns about the risks the boy faced while wandering near railroad tracks late at night.

Railroad corridors can be especially dangerous for young children due to moving trains, limited visibility, and the inability of train operators to stop quickly in emergency situations.

Community members have also called for accountability and transparency as the case moves through the legal system.

A Close Call That Could Have Ended Differently

Fortunately, officers were able to locate the child before tragedy struck.

The quick response by police prevented the young boy from reaching the railroad tracks and potentially encountering a life-threatening situation.

As investigators continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the case, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of child supervision and the potentially devastating consequences that can occur when young children are left vulnerable.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details may emerge as the case proceeds through the courts.