North Carolina Mom Arrested for Leaving Toddler and Infant in Hot Car During Walmart Shoplifting

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 35-year-old North Carolina woman named Erika Johnson was arrested after police say she left her 3-month-old and 2-year-old children unattended in a hot car while she shoplifted inside a Walmart store. The children were found sweating and not moving, and were taken to the hospital in stable condition.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious dangers of leaving young children unattended in vehicles, especially in hot weather, and the potential legal consequences for parents who engage in criminal behavior while their kids are left vulnerable. It also raises concerns about shoplifting and the impact it can have on public safety and community resources.

The details

According to arrest warrants, Erika Johnson was inside the Walmart store with her 3-year-old daughter when she was found concealing merchandise in a trash can. When police were arresting Johnson, the 3-year-old told officers that another child was inside a vehicle. Johnson initially gave police false information about the location of the vehicle, but Walmart staff helped officers identify it. Inside the car, they found Johnson's 3-month-old and 2-year-old children, who were not moving and were sweating.

• On Saturday afternoon, police responded to a trespassing call at the Walmart store.
• Johnson was arrested and charged on March 16, 2026.

What’s next

Johnson is being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center without bond. She faces charges including two counts of misdemeanor child abuse, second-degree trespassing, shoplifting, two counts of resisting a public officer, and simple possession of a Schedule III controlled substance.