Tragedy struck New Bedford this December when an infant boy's remains were discovered at Fort Taber Park, rousing community members and authorities into action. The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office revealed Tuesday that the child had likely been deceased for one to four weeks before being found on December 9, as reported by WCVB. The cause of death remains under investigation, with autopsy results yet to be finalized.
According to the Boston.com news release, a woman and her niece stumbled upon a blanket near some bushes at the park that emitted a telltale odor of decay when upon further investigation, they found a white plastic bag containing the infant's decomposed body, the incident occurred around 12:40 p.m, after which onlookers and a passerby with a dog alerted authorities by calling 911.
Detectives are meticulously combing through surveillance footage from the last few weeks to piece together the events leading to this unfortunate discovery, while an out-of-state private laboratory in Texas has taken on the task of performing in-depth genealogical and forensic DNA testing, mentioned the WCVB. Despite the baby being referred to as "Baby Doe," District Attorney Thomas Quinn III has made heartfelt appeals to the public for any information that could aid in the investigation.
"This is a terrible tragedy, especially when it occurs during the Christmas season, we should all keep the infant in our prayers," District Attorney Quinn was quoted by the Boston Globe. He underscored the urgency for anyone with knowledge to step forward and help shed light on the case. The police can be reached at 508-991-6300 or the state police at 508-961-1901, and for those wishing to remain anonymous, tips can be texted by messaging the word "Bristol" to CRIMES (274637).
