Martha's Vineyard Toddler Dies After Nanny Leaves Him in Car for Hours

Father says son cried out for him as nanny allegedly ignored him for personal activities

Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:53am

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A Martha's Vineyard father is devastated after his 2-year-old son Frankie died of hypothermia last March, allegedly after his nanny Aimee Cotton left the toddler strapped in her car for hours while she went inside her home to cook, clean, and pack her son's hockey bags. The father, Matt Rodenbaugh, said audio from a security camera captured Frankie crying out for his "Dada" before the video went silent.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has raised concerns about the need for better oversight and accountability for childcare providers, as well as the importance of parents closely monitoring their children's safety, even with trusted caregivers. The case also highlights the potential dangers of leaving young children unattended in vehicles.

The details

According to court documents, Cotton, 40, spent around 3 hours inside her home while Frankie was left alone in her SUV. It wasn't until she realized the toddler had stopped breathing that she called 911. Police later found security footage showing Cotton arriving home and going inside without checking on Frankie. The father, Matt Rodenbaugh, said he and his wife Julie had known and trusted Cotton, who had cared for their daughter previously.

  • On March 13, 2025, Frankie was found unresponsive in Cotton's car outside her home.
  • Frankie died a few days later from hypothermia.

The players

Matt Rodenbaugh

The devastated father of Frankie, the 2-year-old who died after being left in the nanny's car.

Aimee Cotton

The 40-year-old nanny who has been indicted on manslaughter and reckless endangerment charges for Frankie's death.

Frankie Rodenbaugh

The 2-year-old toddler who died of hypothermia after being left alone for hours in the nanny's car.

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What they’re saying

“She tortured my child. They enhanced the audio of the video, and he can be heard calling out for Dada over and over and over again, until the video went silent.”

— Matt Rodenbaugh, Frankie's father

“She played Russian roulette with my son's life every day apparently and he didn't win this one.”

— Matt Rodenbaugh, Frankie's father

What’s next

Cotton is currently free on bail and awaiting trial on the manslaughter and reckless endangerment charges. Rodenbaugh has also filed a civil lawsuit against her.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for parents to be vigilant, even with trusted caregivers, and to take steps to ensure their children's safety, such as using security cameras or making unannounced visits. It also highlights the potential consequences of neglect and the importance of holding childcare providers accountable for the wellbeing of the children in their care.