Judge, wife release statement on hot-car death of toddler

Garland County Circuit Judge Wade Naramore and his wife, Ashley, said Friday via a family spokesman that the July hot-car death of their son was "a parent's worst nightmare."

Friday's statement was the first time the family has spoken at length publicly regarding the death of 18-month-old Thomas Naramore.

The Hot Springs Sentinel-Record obtained the statement Friday, which states in part: "No words can ever explain the depth of love for him. This has taken an unimaginable toll on our family, friends and all those who knew the pure joy of our sweet baby boy. We have learned that we are far from alone in our struggle, as diligent and loving parents from all walks of life have suffered this catastrophic loss under similar horrifying circumstances."

Hot Springs police and LifeNet were called to a report of an unresponsive child who had been left in a vehicle July 24, a day when the high temperature was 101.

The Naramores added in the statement that they are trying to be patient during the ongoing investigation and that they have cooperated fully with law enforcement.

"We, as much as anyone, want the matter concluded. Once it is complete and a decision has been made, regardless of the outcome, we desire to raise additional awareness by sharing our story in an effort to prevent this from happening to other children and families in the future," the family said.

The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported in September that an autopsy report into Thomas Naramore's death was completed and being reviewed by a special prosecutor in the case.

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