Tragic Death of 3-Year-Old Ke’Torrius “KJ” Starkes Jr. After Being Left in Hot Car Sparks Outrage in Bessemer

BESSEMER, AL — July 24, 2025 — The community of Bessemer, Alabama, is reeling after the heartbreaking death of 3-year-old Ke’Torrius “KJ” Starkes Jr., who was left unattended in a hot vehicle for over five hours by a Department of Human Resources contract worker.

The toddler’s body was found late Thursday afternoon after being trapped in a car from approximately 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The incident occurred while KJ was in the care of a contract employee from Covenant Services, a third-party provider contracted by the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR).

Negligence Leads to Preventable Tragedy

According to statements from the child’s family and attorneys, KJ was supposed to be transported back to daycare following a scheduled visit with his father. Instead, the contract worker stopped for food and ran errands, leaving the boy alone in the vehicle in dangerously hot conditions.

The Birmingham Fire & Rescue Department pronounced the child deceased at the scene. Officials confirmed that the worker responsible for the child’s care has been terminated and is cooperating with police.

Investigation Underway

The Birmingham Police Department is actively investigating the incident. While the contract worker has been taken in for questioning, her identity has not been publicly released due to confidentiality protocols.

The Alabama Department of Human Resources has expressed deep regret and pledged full cooperation with authorities as they seek justice for KJ and accountability from those involved.

Community Mourns and Demands Change

The tragic death has sparked widespread grief and outrage locally and beyond. Residents, advocates, and social media users are demanding answers and systemic reforms to ensure such negligence never happens again.

One community member poignantly shared:

“This should never happen to any child. Where was the protocol? Where was the responsibility? Our children deserve better.”

Remembering Ke’Torrius “KJ” Starkes Jr.

Ke’Torrius was described as a joyful, vibrant boy who deserved a childhood filled with love, laughter, and safety. His death is a stark reminder of the importance of strict oversight and care for children in state custody or care arrangements.

Plans for a candlelight vigil to honor KJ’s memory are underway, as the community comes together to grieve and call for change.

Call to Action

Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident or related concerns to contact the Birmingham Police Department. The family and community hope this tragedy will inspire reforms to prevent future heartbreak.4