He told them the child had been under water for about 8 minutes. According to the man's statement, he put the child and a 2-year-old sibling in the bathtub while he watched a movie with some friends.
When he came back, the child was under water.
The 7-month-old was taken to Onslow Memorial Hospital where death was pronounced.
Deputies have not named the family involved. They say the investigation continues and no charges have been filed.