In a recent incident in Houston, a mother was arrested for allegedly driving with her children perched on the roof of her car. The case has drawn attention to child safety and the responsibilities of guardians. Witness Nicole Duncan, a Child Protective Services (CPS) worker, recounts seeing three children seated atop a moving vehicle as it traveled at speeds over 40 miles per hour. Duncan’s immediate actions led to the driver being stopped and subsequently charged with endangering her children.

Incident Details

On a warm April day, CPS worker Nicole Duncan left her office only to witness an alarming scene unfold before her eyes. As she pulled out of the parking lot, she noticed what appeared to be a figure clinging to the top of a speeding car. Intrigued and alarmed, she accelerated to investigate further. Upon closer inspection, her worst fears were realized—three children were precariously perched on the roof of the vehicle, their legs dangling through the sunroof.

The driver, later identified as Yenina Kesia Gonon Conde, was reportedly traveling at speeds exceeding 40 miles per hour. Concerned for the children's safety, Duncan attempted to signal Conde to pull over by honking and gesturing. However, Conde continued driving for approximately four miles until finally stopping in a Fiesta parking lot located near the intersection of 90 and South Post Oak Road.

Upon confronting Conde, Duncan was astonished by the mother’s justification. Conde claimed that the children had wanted to climb onto the roof and she saw no harm in it. Duncan, both as a parent and a CPS worker, found this explanation deeply troubling. She emphasized the critical role of parents in ensuring their children’s safety, regardless of the children's own perceptions of risk.

Conde, aged 44, was promptly arrested and faces three counts of child endangerment. The children involved have been placed with family members, according to CPS officials handling the case.

Duncan expressed hope that this incident would serve as a learning experience not just for Conde but for all parents and guardians. She underscored the importance of stepping in when witnessing situations where vulnerable individuals are at risk.

From a journalistic perspective, this incident highlights the necessity of vigilance in safeguarding children. It serves as a reminder that while children may perceive certain activities as harmless fun, adults must exercise judgment and prioritize safety. Readers might reflect on their own roles in protecting those who cannot protect themselves, echoing Duncan’s call to action: everyone has a responsibility to intervene when necessary. This story underscores the importance of community involvement in child welfare.