A preschool in Chester has been shut down by the state amidst allegations a 3-year-old, who was supposed to be in their care, was instead, recently found alone and wandering outside.

The state Office of Children and Family Services suspended the license for Little Scholars Preschool on Brookside Avenue in Chester Friday, after an inspection Sept. 10 found multiple violations for several issues including “incompetent supervision.”

News 12 reached out to the facility’s owner on record with the state for comment but hasn’t heard back. An assistant teacher outside of the facility spoke with News 12, as parents were seen picking up their children’s belongings.

“There was an unfortunate incident where a teacher didn’t follow our protocol,” says Alexander Adam. “My aunt started this place because it’s her passion and it’s very unfortunate.”

Officials have not revealed the circumstances of the incident, but a source tells News12 the child ran off from their group while coming in from the playground and never made it back inside the facility. The child’s absence allegedly went unnoticed until a stranger found them outside. It’s not clear how long the toddler may have been alone.

The day care is surrounded by businesses, a busy parking lot and is feet away from Route 17M.

“It can be dangerous. If you’re coming out this way, people don’t stop. Sometimes there’s garbage trucks, 18-wheelers,” says Christine Diaz who works nearby.

Village of Chester police say the incident was not reported to them. Online state records show the facility is facing four OCFS violations and that the evidence shows child safety was determined to be in “imminent danger.”

Staff say the facility cared for more than 80 children and had over 30 employees.

“It’s very upsetting,” says Adam.

News 12 reached out to OCFS for more information but didn’t immediately receive a response.

According to online state records, the facility will remain closed until the violations are corrected and could face revocation of their license to operate.