Oregon Mother Arrested After Alleged Carbon Monoxide Attack on Three Children in “Sleepover” Incident

Authorities in Keizer, Oregon, are investigating a disturbing case in which a 32-year-old mother has been arrested and charged after allegedly attempting to harm her three young children in what police describe as a premeditated carbon monoxide exposure incident inside a family vehicle.

According to investigators, Chardonnay Marie Benavidez is accused of planning the incident over the course of approximately one week before carrying it out on June 6, 2026. Police allege she deliberately chose carbon monoxide from vehicle exhaust as a means of causing fatal poisoning and took steps to implement the plan inside the family garage.

Court documents and police statements indicate that Benavidez allegedly convinced her children—a four-year-old boy and two-year-old twin daughters—that they were participating in a special “sleepover” inside the car. Investigators say the children entered the vehicle under the impression that it was a harmless and exciting activity.

Authorities allege that once the children were inside, a tube was connected from the vehicle’s exhaust system into the cabin, allowing carbon monoxide to accumulate in the enclosed space. Carbon monoxide is a highly toxic gas that can cause unconsciousness, organ failure, and death in enclosed environments.

At some point during the incident, investigators believe the situation changed, as the children were later removed from the vehicle and brought inside the home. Benavidez then called 911, prompting an emergency response that police say likely prevented a fatal outcome.

Emergency responders arrived to find the vehicle still running with the exhaust setup in place inside the garage. Fire crews entered the scene with protective equipment due to hazardous gas levels and ventilated the area to ensure safety during the investigation.

The three children were transported to Salem Hospital for evaluation and treatment for carbon monoxide exposure. Officials confirmed that all three were later released and placed in the care of their father the following day.

During the investigation, authorities also reported discovering a firearm inside the vehicle, which they believe may have been intended as part of a secondary plan. Prosecutors allege the incident was highly premeditated, pointing to evidence suggesting prior planning and preparation.

Benavidez has been charged with three counts of first-degree attempted murder and three counts of first-degree ᴀssault. She remains in custody as the case proceeds through the court system.

Family members, including the children’s father, expressed shock at the allegations, noting prior concerns about mental health struggles but stating they never anticipated an incident involving the children.

Law enforcement officials emphasized that the quick 911 call and rapid emergency response were critical in preventing what could have become a fatal tragedy.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to review evidence and reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the incident. 🕊️💔