State Temporarily Suspends Savage Childcare License After Infant Death, Second Emergency Reported
SAVAGE, MINNESOTA—State regulators have issued an emergency suspension of Rocking Horse Ranch Childcare in Savage following the death of an infant and another reported medical emergency involving a second child.
The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) announced Tuesday that it has temporarily and immediately suspended the facility’s license, citing an “imminent risk of harm” to children in its care. The suspension comes one day after the Savage Police Department confirmed an infant died on Monday, September 22, at the childcare center, located at 14856 Louisiana Avenue South.
Two Medical Emergencies, One Death
According to DCYF’s order, the agency was notified of two instances of infants experiencing significant respiratory distress while in the program’s care. The first occurred on Friday, September 19, and the second on Monday, September 22. The second incident resulted in the death of a child.
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting an autopsy to determine the exact cause and manner of death. Officials emphasized that the underlying cause of the emergencies remains under investigation.
License Suspended Immediately
The suspension order, served to Rocking Horse Ranch’s authorized agent, Lisa Weiss, prohibits the facility from providing any child care services effective immediately. The order also bars operation as an unlicensed child care provider while the suspension is in effect.
“Based on these findings, DCYF cannot ensure the health and safety of the children served by your program at this time,” the order states.
The suspension was issued under Minnesota Statutes section 142B.18, subdivision 2(a)(1), which allows the state to take immediate action if children are determined to be at imminent risk of harm.
Parents Urged to Monitor Children
Police and state officials are urging families with children who attend Rocking Horse Ranch to carefully monitor for symptoms such as altered mental status, behavioral changes, or difficulty breathing. Families should seek medical attention immediately if concerns arise.
Right to Appeal
Rocking Horse Ranch has the right to appeal the suspension within five calendar days through the state’s Provider Hub. If appealed, the case would be heard by an administrative law judge in a contested hearing before the DCYF Commissioner issues a final decision.
The suspension order must also be posted at the facility in a clearly visible location for a period of two years, even if the appeal is successful.
Ongoing Investigation
The Savage Police Department and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension continue to investigate the most recent fatal incident. Authorities have not released the infant’s identity, pending autopsy results and family notifications.
“Our thoughts are with the family during this incredibly difficult time,” Savage Police said in a statement Monday.
Anyone with information related to the case is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Andrew Dahmes with the Savage Police Department at 952-882-2601.
ORIGINAL STORY: Infant Death Under Investigation at Savage Childcare Facility
Written By: Will Wight
Cover Photo Provided by: Google Maps.
