Michigan State Police have launched a homicide investigation after a newborn baby was discovered dead inside a portable toilet at the Electric Forest Festival in Rothbury, Michigan. The infant was found by a cleaning crew during routine maintenance on Sunday morning.
Autopsy Confirms Baby Was Born Alive
According to Michigan State Police Lieutenant Pat Agema, an autopsy determined the baby was born alive, as fluid was found in the infant's lungs and stomach. The placenta and umbilical cord were also recovered at the scene, leading investigators to believe the child was delivered inside the toilet. A final post-mortem report is still pending.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Police have not identified the baby's mother or made any arrests. In a statement, Michigan State Police appealed for public assistance: "If you were in the area and observed anything unusual, or if you have information that you believe may be relevant, we encourage you to come forward." They also urged people to avoid speculation on social media.
Festival Organisers Express Heartbreak
Electric Forest organisers expressed devastation over the incident, stating: "Forest Family, it causes us so much pain to have to share this difficult news with you... HQ is heartbroken and knows that our Forest Family is as well." The festival, which drew thousands of campers near Rothbury, continues to cooperate with the investigation.
