What was meant to be a sunny day by the ocean turned into a distressing scene when a couple from Texas allegedly left their six-month-old baby alone on Miramar Beach in Florida.
The shocking incident has led to child neglect charges for Sara and Brian Wilks, whose decision to “let their baby nap” under a tent has now landed them in serious legal trouble.
Good Samaritans Step In
Beachgoers were the first to notice the unattended infant lying under a tent near the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa.
Concerned by the baby’s solitude, they quickly intervened, comforting and caring for the little one until help arrived.
When deputies from the Walton County Sheriff’s Office reached the scene, they found the child safe and in good condition — thanks to the quick actions of those nearby.
Parents Return and Admit to Leaving Baby
About an hour later, Sara, 37, and her husband Brian, 40, returned to the beach and admitted they had left their baby there while going for a walk with their other three children.
They told deputies they “lost track of time,” leaving their phones behind and assuming their infant would stay asleep under the shade.
Surveillance footage confirmed they were away from their child far longer than they initially claimed.
Police and Child Services Respond
Authorities confirmed the baby’s vitals were normal and that she appeared unharmed, but the situation prompted immediate intervention from the Florida Department of Children and Families.
The couple’s other children were temporarily placed in state custody until relatives from Texas could come for them.
Both Sara and Brian were charged with child neglect without great bodily harm and released the following day after posting a $1,000 bond each.
Sheriff’s Office Condemns the Neglect
Major Dustin Cosson from the Walton County Sheriff’s Office called the length of time the child was left alone “way longer than reasonable.”
He stressed that even if a baby is napping, parents cannot simply leave them unattended — especially outdoors.
“You wouldn’t leave a baby at home and head to the store,” Cosson said.
“Anything could have happened — a gust of wind, a towel covering her face, or even suffocation. Parents must stay vigilant.”
Common Sense and Parenting Warnings
Cosson also reminded families visiting Florida’s beaches that safety should always come first.
“Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean common sense takes a break,” he noted.
“No matter where you are — whether crossing a state line or stepping onto the sand — parents have to do what’s best for their children.”
No Malice, but Serious Consequences
While investigators believe the Wilks didn’t act out of malice, authorities maintain that their decision to leave the baby alone warrants criminal charges.
The law, they emphasized, is there to protect children — even when a situation stems from poor judgment rather than intent to harm.
From Rising Star to Legal Scrutiny
The case has drawn additional attention because of Sara Wilks’ prominent role in the healthcare industry.
Professionally known as Sara Sommers, she serves as a regional president for US Heart and Vascular, a national support provider for cardiovascular practices.
Earlier this year, she was named among Cardiovascular Business’s “Forty Under 40 Class of 2025” for her leadership and work in improving patient care efficiency.
Career Achievements Shadowed by Charges
According to Cardiovascular Business, Sara’s leadership helped streamline patient services and reduce costs within the cardiovascular field.
Colleagues have praised her for balancing compassion with innovation — but now, her professional reputation faces scrutiny as she navigates this criminal case.
What Lies Ahead for the Wilks
The couple’s legal proceedings will determine whether they face further penalties for their actions.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of their children while authorities and family members work to resolve the situation.
What was intended as a relaxing family getaway has instead become a cautionary tale about responsibility and awareness — reminding parents everywhere that even a brief lapse in judgment can have lasting consequences.