8-Year-Old Girl Dies After Severe Asthma Attack as Parents Face Child Neglect Charges

CALIFORNIA — Two parents in San Jose are facing felony child neglect charges following the death of their eight-year-old daughter, Aurora, after a severe asthma attack earlier this year.

Authorities allege that the child’s parents waited approximately eight hours before seeking medical assistance, despite the seriousness of her condition.

A Medical Emergency at Home

According to reporting by PEOPLE, Aurora experienced a serious asthma attack on May 13, 2026, while living with her family in San Jose.

Investigators allege that her parents, Gabrielle Hanson, 32, and Jacob Randolph, 39, failed to obtain timely emergency medical care.

Aurora was eventually hospitalized but died four days later.

Investigators Raise Concerns About Living Conditions

The investigation also revealed concerns about the conditions inside the family home.

Authorities described an environment affected by cockroaches and mold, alongside concerns about the maintenance of medical equipment.

Investigators examined whether those conditions and the alleged delay in treatment contributed to Aurora’s death.

Medical Examiner Determines Cause of Death

The medical examiner attributed Aurora’s death to oxygen deprivation associated with an acute asthma episode and a respiratory infection, with medical neglect identified as a contributing factor.

The findings became a central part of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s final days.

Six Other Children Placed in Protective Care

Following the investigation, Aurora’s six surviving siblings, whose ages range from two months to 17 years, were placed in protective custody.

Authorities also reported that child welfare services had previously raised concerns about the household.

A separate adult associated with the home faces allegations involving another child. Those allegations form part of a distinct aspect of the case.

Parents Appear in Court

Hanson and Randolph were arraigned on October 13 and released under supervision.

Their next court appearance is scheduled for November 20.

The charges remain allegations, and criminal responsibility must be determined through the legal process.

Source: PEOPLE, October 15, 2026. Reporting on the San Jose child neglect investigation and court proceedings.