Tomball Mother Arrested After Toddlers Left Home Alone

TOMBALL, TX -- On July 8, 2026, Deputies with Constable Mark Herman's Office responded to the 19400 block of Cavern Springs Drive to conduct a welfare check after neighbors reported several young children wandering outside without adult supervision.

Upon arrival, deputies discovered three children, ages 1, 3, and 4, had been left home alone. Multiple attempts were made to contact the children's mother, but she did not respond. Deputies were eventually able to reach a family member, who arrived at the residence and contacted the children's mother by phone. She advised she was on her way back to the residence.

A short time later, the mother, identified as Madeline Colunga, returned to the home. During the investigation, she was unable to provide a reasonable explanation for leaving the children unattended.

Child Protective Services was notified, and the children were safely released to a guardian at the scene.

Madeline Colunga was arrested and booked into the Harris County Jail, charged with Child Endangerment With Intent to Return. Her bond was set at $5,000.00 out of the 176th District Court.

"The safety of our children is always our highest priority. Leaving young children home alone places them at serious risk and is never worth the gamble. We are grateful for the neighbors who acted quickly and contacted law enforcement. If you see a child in danger, don't hesitate to call 911." — Constable Mark Herman

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