NCDHHS Releases Statement on Trails Carolina Investigation

North Carolina -- February 16, 2024: Press Release North Carolina Department of Health and Human Servies:

Below is a press release from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services in regard to Trails Carolina.

The Transylvania County Department of Social Services and Sherriff’s Office, along with staff from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, have been conducting investigations of Trails Carolina following the death of a child on February 3, 2024. The decision has been made to remove all children from the care of Trails Carolina, and all new admissions are suspended. While the investigation is ongoing and we cannot comment on specific details, it was determined that action needed to be taken to ensure the health and safety of the children. Parents have been notified and children will be temporarily taken into the care of Transylvania County DSS.

The death at Trails Carolina is tragic and concerning. We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of the child who died, and commit to them that we are conducting a thorough investigation with our county partners and will take every appropriate step based on the outcome of our and other investigations.
Heather Strickland
she/her / hers
Senior Director of Communications
NC Department of Health and Human Services
Office: 919-855-4835
NCDHHS provides essential services to improve the health, safety and well-being of all North Carolinians