Houston Police Department

August 19, 2005 -- Houston police are investigating the drowning of a child at 7911 S. Gessner about 4 p.m. on Friday (Aug 19).

The victim is identified as 10-month-old Michael Morgan McGarry of 7911 S. Gessner. An autopsy by the Harris County Medical Examiner's office is pending.

HAD Homicide Division Officers A. Mares and T. Huynh reported:

Michael McGarry's grandmother, who had been his caretaker for the past several months, filled a bathtub with approximately four to six inches of water in preparation for his bath. Michael was placed in the bathtub and the grandmother left the child unattended while she went to prepare a bottle for him. She became preoccupied with several other things and did not return for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Realizing the child was still alone in the tub, the grandmother returned to the bathroom to find Michael lying face down in the water.

The grandmother removed the child from the bathtub and with the assistance of an older son began to administer CPR. HFD paramedics arrived and transported Michael to Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital where he later died.

The investigation is continuing. No charges have been filed at this time.

NJM/JFC 8/20/05
Inc#127196805

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.