Boy Found Dead Near Dumpsters in Panorama City Lot

A young boy, estimated to be 3 or 4 years old, was found dead early Saturday morning near trash containers or dumpsters in a parking lot on the 8200 block of Van Nuys Boulevard in Panorama City. Officers from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Mission Division responded to the scene around 7 a.m., and the child was pronounced dead by Los Angeles Fire Department personnel. The child’s identity, possible injuries, and cause of death remain unknown, with an autopsy pending. The LAPD’s Abused Child Unit and Juvenile Division are leading the investigation, assisted by officials from the Medical Examiner’s office. The area was cordoned off as authorities continued their inquiry. The case has prompted a significant police investigation as officials work to determine the circumstances of the boy’s death.