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Blairsville Today
By the People, for the People
Mom Charged After Son Found on Roof 'Trying to Hang on Power Lines'
Amanda Rivera of Blairsville, Penn., was arrested and charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of children.
Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:19am
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A Pennsylvania mom was charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of children after her son was allegedly found on the roof of her home 'trying to hang on the power lines' while she was 'running errands.' Amanda Rivera of Blairsville, Penn., was arrested on Sunday, March 15, and charged the next day, according to the court docket.
Why it matters
This case highlights the serious risks and legal consequences of leaving young children unsupervised, even briefly, in potentially dangerous situations. It also raises questions about the challenges parents can face in balancing childcare responsibilities with other obligations.
The details
According to police, a neighbor saw the 7 or 8-year-old boy climb out of a window and onto the 20-foot-high roof during 'extremely high winds,' putting him at risk of falling. The neighbor called 911, and the boy was safely returned inside before police arrived. Rivera, 38, claimed she was 'running errands' and spending 'time at the new house' as the family was preparing to move.
- On March 15, 2026, Amanda Rivera was arrested.
- On March 16, 2026, Rivera was charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of children.
- Rivera's preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 15, 2026.
The players
Amanda Rivera
A 38-year-old Pennsylvania mother who was charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of children after her son was found on the roof of their home.
Blairsville Police Department
The law enforcement agency that arrested Rivera and charged her with the crimes.
What they’re saying
“I feel for the mother. I'm sure she was trying her best to move and do everything she needed to do. However, when you have children, you're responsible. Accidents happen, but that's completely unacceptable.”
— Anna Zadecky, Blairsville resident
“I think too many people are not paying attention anymore. They don't realize that one little thing could happen so quick, and it changes all their lives forever.”
— Anna Zadecky, Blairsville resident
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on April 15, 2026 whether to allow Amanda Rivera out on bail.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the critical importance of constant supervision and vigilance when it comes to the safety of young children, even for brief periods. It serves as a sobering reminder for all parents to prioritize childcare responsibilities and be aware of potential hazards in their environment.
