Authorities have closed the preliminary investigation into a child's death at a daycare in Pyhäjoki, Northern Ostrobothnia. The prosecutor announced the decision on Wednesday.
A young child died in early April while napping outside in a stroller. A caregiver found the child lifeless about three hours after putting them down for a nap. Staff attempted resuscitation without success.
Police initially launched an investigation where the early education director and two caregivers were suspected of negligent homicide.
The autopsy report determined the death was natural and resulted from illness. No other significant contributing diseases or injuries were found. The prosecutor stated no public or private interest required continuing the investigation since all necessary actions had been completed.
The investigation leader recommended closing the case, and the prosecutor agreed.
Earlier, Finland's Safety Investigation Authority decided not to conduct a safety investigation. They concluded it wouldn't provide significant additional safety information.
Following the incident, Pyhäjoki municipality issued new directives to daycares. Children must not sleep outside, and sleeping children should never be left alone.
In this case, the stroller was placed outside a daycare window where it was visible from inside. However, a curtain blocked direct view of the child. The child slept outside alone with monitoring based on watching for stroller or curtain movement. Staff didn't use a cry alarm or conduct regular checks.
This tragic case highlights the difficult balance between Nordic outdoor sleeping traditions and child safety requirements. While many Nordic parents value fresh air naps, this incident shows the risks when supervision becomes compromised.