An investigation is currently in progress following an alarming incident at a childcare center in Queensland, Australia, where a baby’s finger was reportedly severed.

The unfortunate event involved a 10-month-old child and took place on February 24 at the Active Kids Early Learning Laidley 2 Centre, also known as Free Range Kids Laidley 2 Centre, situated in the Lockyer Valley.

Photographic evidence obtained by The Chronicle reveals that the tip of the baby’s right ring finger was completely detached.

Details surrounding how the incident happened remain unclear at this time.

Department of Education responds

A representative from the Department of Education informed news.com.au that an investigation is actively being conducted to understand the circumstances of the incident.

“Ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of children in early childhood education and care services is the top priority of the Queensland Early Childhood Regulatory Authority,” stated the spokesperson.

“The Regulatory Authority is aware of a matter involving a child sustaining a finger injury which required medical attention.

“As the incident is currently under investigation, no further information can be provided.

“The Regulatory Authority continues to work with the sector to address the safety and quality of early childhood education and care services across Queensland.”

News.com.au contacted Active Kids, which has three centers in the Lockyer Valley, for comment.

Long-running part of community

Active Kids Early Learning is a privately owned childcare provider that has operated in Queensland for over 15 years.

The company is owned by the Campbell family and positions itself as a community-focused, “family-style” service rather than a large corporate chain.