A six-month-old baby girl was found abandoned in a stroller in Times Square late on Tuesday night, according to the New York Police Department. The incident occurred just after 11 p.m. near West 44th Street and Seventh Avenue, prompting a swift response from authorities.
Discovery and Immediate Response
Officers arrived at the scene following a 911 call reporting a potential child abuse situation. Upon arrival, they discovered the infant alone in the stroller. The baby was conscious and alert, and was promptly transported to Northwell Greenwich Village Hospital for a thorough medical evaluation to ensure her well-being.
Search for the Suspected Father
Investigators are actively searching for a man who is believed to be the child's father. Reports indicate that this individual frequents the Times Square area. Police have been canvassing the vicinity, showing the baby's photo to witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage to trace his movements prior to the abandonment.
Legal Implications and Ongoing Investigation
Under New York State's Abandoned Infant Protection Act, parents can legally leave a newborn up to 30 days old at safe locations such as hospitals, firehouses, or police stations without facing prosecution. However, this protection does not apply to the six-month-old in this case, as she exceeds the age limit. Abandoning a child under the age of 14 is classified as a felony in New York.
Authorities emphasize that parents of older infants should contact the Administration for Children's Services to properly transfer custody or relinquish parental rights. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing, with the NYPD continuing to gather evidence and follow leads.
