by Vancouver, WA — Three adults have been arrested in Vancouver, Washington, after police discovered five children and three dogs living in a car filled with trash and drug paraphernalia. The children, ages 13, 11, 10, 8, and 5, were found showing clear signs of neglect and had very limited access to food in the cramped vehicle, which was located in downtown Vancouver near the Oregon border.
Police described the vehicle as extremely hazardous, with large garbage bags strapped to the top and litter covering the interior. Photos released by authorities reveal the filthy and dangerous living conditions, as well as the methamphetamine and fentanyl found inside.
Drugs and Arrests
During the investigation, officers discovered meth on one suspect and obtained a confession from another admitting that fentanyl was in the car. The three adults—Natalie Gebron, Zachariah Edwards, and Corleone Lewis—were taken into custody on multiple charges related to child endangerment, drug possession, and animal cruelty.
- Natalie Gebron and Zachariah Edwards:
- Five counts of endangerment with a controlled substance
- One count of possession of a controlled substance
- Three counts of second-degree animal cruelty
- Corleone Lewis:
- One count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to manufacture or deliver
- Two counts of unlawful camping
- Two counts of unlawful storage of personal property in public places
- One count of possession of a controlled substance
- Two domestic violence-related charges
It remains unclear whether the adults were related to the children or the nature of their relationships.
Animals Rescued, One Euthanized
Animal Control assisted in removing the three dogs from the hazardous car conditions. Authorities reported that two dogs were severely underweight, while the third had an untreated open tumor and had to be euthanized due to its condition.
Police emphasized that the combination of drugs, neglect, and unsafe living conditions warranted the arrests of all three adults.
Children Placed in Protective Custody
The five children were immediately taken into the care of Child Protective Services (CPS) and transported to a hospital for evaluation. Authorities are assessing the long-term safety and care arrangements for the children.
The vehicle used for the hazardous living situation was seized by police as part of the ongoing investigation.
Community Concerns and Police Statement
Local authorities described the situation as alarming and reiterated the dangers of children living in unsafe, unsanitary, and drug-filled environments. Police stated:
“Due to the conditions inside the vehicle, and the presence of drugs and dangerous conditions, all three adults were arrested.”
Community members have expressed shock at the discovery, highlighting concerns over child welfare, public safety, and animal cruelty.
How can communities better prevent situations where children and animals are endangered in unsafe living conditions? Share your thoughts in the comments — your ideas could help protect vulnerable children and pets.
