A night out at one of Orlando’s busiest entertainment districts ended with a mother facing criminal charges after deputies say she left her young daughter alone at a bar while she went out drinking elsewhere.

According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened Saturday night at Universal CityWalk, a popular dining and nightlife area located next to Universal Orlando Resort. Deputies were called to the scene after reports of a missing child, eventually locating a 12-year-old girl sitting alone on a bar stool inside one of the venues.

Authorities say the girl appeared visibly upset and crying when they found her. The situation quickly drew attention from staff and security after a concerned witness alerted a bartender that the child appeared to be alone.

Investigators later identified the girl’s mother as Amanda Thorpe, who had reportedly been with her daughter at the bar earlier that evening. According to information described in an arrest affidavit reported by WESH, the situation began when the child became upset about something while they were at the venue.

Deputies say the mother wanted to leave the location and continue her night at another bar, while the daughter asked to return to their hotel room because she was tired.

The disagreement escalated, and authorities say Thorpe left the bar alone after making an offensive gesture toward the girl. The child remained behind.

Witnesses notified staff members, who then contacted Universal security to help locate the girl’s guardian.

Security personnel eventually found Thorpe elsewhere in the entertainment complex. According to investigators, she was alone, dancing and holding an alcoholic drink when they approached her.

When questioned by deputies, Thorpe reportedly said she did not realize her daughter had been left behind. She told officers she believed the girl had followed her or had returned to the hotel room.

However, investigators determined the child had remained alone at the original location until security intervened.

Thorpe was arrested and charged with child neglect, according to authorities.

Officials say the girl’s grandfather was contacted and later picked her up, ensuring she was safely reunited with family members. The incident was also reported to the Florida Department of Children and Families, which may conduct a separate review of the situation.

Universal CityWalk is known for attracting thousands of visitors every evening, with restaurants, clubs and entertainment venues drawing large crowds. Law enforcement officials say incidents involving minors in nightlife environments can present serious safety concerns.

While the investigation into the events of that evening appears complete, the case now moves into the legal system, where Thorpe will face the charge related to the alleged neglect of her child.

The situation has sparked conversations about parental responsibility and safety in busy public venues, particularly when alcohol is involved.