Arvada Daycare Operator Under Criminal Review After Infant Left Critical

The license suspension order filed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood reveals a stark discrepancy that has complicated the ongoing criminal investigation: the daycare owner was caring for four infants at one time, although her license permitted only two.

This regulatory violation is central to the state's review of the facility in Arvada. The order confirms that the injured child and one of the two sons enrolled by parent Hannah Fuller were among the four children present when the incident occurred last month. The state agency issued the suspension order to halt operations while authorities determine the extent of the violations and the circumstances surrounding the injury.

The incident began when Fuller received a frantic phone call from an assistant to the daycare's main operator. The assistant, who is also the operator's daughter, reported that an infant had choked and required CPR. Upon arriving at the facility, Fuller stated that she was given few specifics, only repeated assurances that the situation was under control. She noted that her intuition told her the reality was more serious than the staff was letting on, a feeling that grew stronger in the days following the event.

According to the official suspension documentation, the child was transported to a hospital in critical and near fatal condition. Westminster police have since classified the matter as a criminal investigation. As of this week, no arrests have been made, a fact that has frustrated Fuller. She expressed that the lack of immediate accountability is a source of significant stress for the families involved.

The suspension order also highlights a history of legal issues for the owner. It cites a previous misdemeanor child abuse charge connected to a separate incident that took place in February 2026. The owner is scheduled to appear in court on October 29 to address that earlier charge, which adds another layer of scrutiny to the current probe.

Fuller shared an update on the injured boy, who has requested privacy for his family. She reported that he has suffered a traumatic brain injury and retinal hemorrhaging. His recovery is expected to be long and uncertain. Fuller described the family's approach as taking small improvements as victories while hoping for the best, though they acknowledge the child will never be the same as before.

Police have asked all parents who had children at the daycare to take them for physical exams to check for any internal damage. Despite these steps, investigators have not yet shared their preliminary findings with the parents regarding what they believe happened during the critical incident. This lack of transparency has left many families waiting for clarity.

During a visit to the facility, a family member was present but declined to comment, referring questions to an attorney. The attorney also declined to provide statements. The situation remains under active review by both state regulators and local law enforcement.

A police spokesperson addressed the concerns of the community in a written statement. The department acknowledged how worrying the situation is for the families involved. However, the spokesperson emphasized that investigations involving the safety of children require time and careful review to protect the integrity of the case and the privacy of those involved. The department stated it will share information when legally permitted and encouraged parents to contact the department directly with questions.

The case now moves into a formal legal phase with the upcoming court date on October 29. Until then, the daycare remains suspended, and the families involved continue to seek answers about the day that changed their lives.