Walhalla, SC – 4-Year-Old Child Found in Cardiac Arrest, Parents Joshua Latimer and Destiny Dionne Arrested
Walhalla, SC – A tragic incident unfolded Friday morning when emergency responders discovered a 4-year-old child in cardiac arrest at a Walhalla residence. The child was immediately rushed to the hospital, but despite rapid medical intervention, the severity of the condition prompted the coroner’s involvement soon after arrival. Authorities confirmed that the child’s parents, Joshua Emanuel Lamar Latimer, 30, and Destiny Shay Dionne, 24, were taken into custody in connection with the incident.
The arrest followed allegations that both children, including a 2-year-old sibling, had been placed in unreasonable risk. Joshua Latimer, a Lance Corporal with the Highway Patrol since 2017, was immediately terminated following his arrest. The gravity of the situation shocked neighbors and the broader Walhalla community, where residents expressed disbelief and sorrow over the unfolding events.
Law enforcement officials reported that the initial emergency call came in around 6:20 a.m., prompting a swift response by first responders. Upon arrival, the child was in critical condition, and responders immediately requested coroner support. The discovery set in motion an investigation led by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), specifically the Special Victims Unit, which now has primary oversight of the case.
Prosecutors have charged both Latimer and Dionne with unlawful conduct toward a child. The charges indicate that the parents allegedly subjected their children to unreasonable risk, with investigators emphasizing the seriousness of the circumstances that placed the young victims in harm’s way. The legal process is underway, with authorities awaiting autopsy results scheduled for Monday to further clarify the cause of the child’s medical emergency.
Community members have expressed shock and concern over the allegations. Neighbors described the family as “quiet” but noted that the incident had cast a pall over the usually peaceful area. Local residents have begun organizing support for the affected family members while also grappling with the unsettling nature of the accusations against two adults entrusted with the care of young children.
Authorities have refrained from releasing detailed information about the children’s medical conditions beyond confirming the cardiac arrest. The hospital where the child was treated issued a statement urging privacy for the family and confirming that medical staff acted swiftly to stabilize the child. The focus remains on the ongoing investigation and ensuring the safety and welfare of the 2-year-old sibling.
SLED’s Special Victims Unit continues to lead the investigation, reviewing evidence and coordinating with prosecutors to determine the next steps. The pending autopsy is expected to provide critical information regarding the 4-year-old child’s condition and the circumstances that led to the emergency. Officials emphasize that the case is being handled with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity.
The arrest of Latimer, a longtime member of the Highway Patrol, has prompted broader discussions about accountability and oversight among law enforcement personnel. His immediate termination underscores the seriousness with which authorities treat allegations involving child welfare, particularly when public servants are involved. Community members have called for transparency as the case proceeds.
Family members and friends of the children have expressed profound sorrow and are asking for privacy during this difficult time. Messages of support and sympathy have poured in from the Walhalla community, highlighting the emotional impact of the situation and the need for compassion as legal and medical processes continue.
This heartbreaking incident in Walhalla serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of children and the responsibility of adults to ensure their safety. With SLED’s ongoing investigation and the upcoming autopsy results, authorities are committed to uncovering the facts while providing support to those affected. The community remains united in sympathy for the children’s loved ones and in hope for resolution and justice.
