DCYF discloses near fatality of 2-year-old child and 15-year-old youth

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families disclosed the near death of a two-year-old child and a 15-year-old youth on Wednesday.

The department’s Public Engagement Team said the incident involving the two-year-old occurred on Nov. 10, 2024 and was the result of “maltreatment.” DCYF added that the family and child were not involved with the department at the time.

The incident involving the 15-year-old youth occurred on May 6, 2025. According to DCYF, the youth was involved with the department at the time.

The Office of the Child Advocate has been notified of both incidents.

The department added that because of “confidentiality laws,” DCYF is prohibited from sharing additional information.

According to state law, Rhode Islanders are required to report suspected childhood abuse and neglect within 24 hours to 1-800-RI-CHILD.