McCurtain Memorial Hospital in Idabel, Oklahoma, has been forced to speak out after being inundated with requests from Netflix viewers who watched the true crime documentary Maternal Instinct. The hospital was central to the chilling case of Taylor Parker, who was taken there after police found her driving on a highway with a newborn baby.
Hospital Responds to Public Interest
In a statement posted on Facebook, the hospital acknowledged the renewed public interest following the documentary's release. It said: 'McCurtain Memorial Hospital is aware of the renewed public interest surrounding a documentary on a popular streaming platform that revisits the tragic murder of a young mother and the death of her unborn child in New Boston, Texas.'
The statement continued: 'Since the documentary’s release, we have received inquiries from individuals seeking to visit our hospital, view areas associated with the events depicted, and speak with or photograph members of our medical team.'
Background of the Case
The documentary details the 2020 murder of Reagan Simmons-Hancock, a pregnant woman whose unborn baby, Braxlynn, was cut from her womb by Taylor Parker. Parker claimed she had just given birth and needed medical attention, but hospital staff discovered she was never pregnant. Parker had killed Simmons-Hancock and fled the scene with the baby.
In 2022, Parker was convicted of capital murder and sentenced to death. She remains on death row in Texas pending appeals.
Hospital's Appeal to Viewers
The hospital reminded viewers that the events were not a source of entertainment. 'While the events portrayed were real and remain a matter of public record, they also represent one of the most painful chapters in the lives of the victim’s family, the New Boston community, and the healthcare professionals who responded that day,' the statement said.
'Out of respect for those affected, including the family, our staff, and the community, McCurtain Memorial Hospital will not participate in interviews, photo opportunities, tours, or discussions related to these events,' the hospital added.
Remembering the Victims
The hospital also took time to remember the victims. 'We also acknowledge the lasting impact this tragedy had on the first responders, nurses, physicians, and hospital staff who worked tirelessly in its aftermath,' the statement read. 'The New Boston community will forever carry the scars of this loss, and many members of our team continue to carry those memories as well.'
Maternal Instinct is currently streaming on Netflix.
