ReadPITTSBURGH — Authorities in Pittsburgh are investigating a deeply tragic incident after the body of a newborn infant was discovered in the trunk of a vehicle on the city’s North Side late Friday night.
According to the Pittsburgh Department of Public Safety, the investigation began around 8:20 p.m. on October 24, 2025, when Ohio Township Police contacted Pittsburgh officers about a woman who had recently arrived at a hospital after giving birth but did not have her baby with her. Officials said the woman left the hospital against medical advice, prompting immediate concern from law enforcement.
Following a series of urgent questions about the infant’s whereabouts, police traced the woman’s vehicle to the 1400 block of Federal Street. When officers searched the trunk, they made a devastating discovery — the body of a newborn wrapped in clothing and placed inside a plastic bag.
Paramedics were called to the scene and pronounced the baby deceased shortly thereafter.
Detectives from Pittsburgh’s Mobile Crime Unit and Violent Crime Unit responded to the scene and also searched a residence in the 100 block of Marshall Avenue, where authorities believe the woman had recently given birth. According to investigators, evidence found at that location confirmed a recent delivery had occurred.
Officials said the woman remains hospitalized for medical care and will be interviewed by detectives once she is cleared by doctors. Her identity has not yet been released, and police have not confirmed whether any charges are currently pending.
The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office has taken custody of the infant’s remains and will perform an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death.
Police have described the case as “deeply distressing” and emphasized that the investigation is ongoing. “This is a tragic and sensitive situation,” one department spokesperson said. “Our detectives are working carefully to gather all the facts and ensure that justice — and compassion — guide this process.”
Neighbors in the North Side community expressed disbelief and sorrow upon learning of the discovery. “It’s heartbreaking,” said one resident. “You never expect something like this to happen so close to home. That poor baby — it’s just so sad.”
Authorities are using the tragedy to remind the public about Pennsylvania’s Safe Haven Law, which allows parents to safely and anonymously surrender newborns up to 28 days old at any hospital or police station, no questions asked. The law is designed to protect infants and prevent heartbreaking outcomes like this one.
As investigators continue their work, the community mourns a life that ended before it began — a reminder of how fragile and precious every moment of life truly is.
Police urge anyone with information related to the case to contact Pittsburgh Zone 1 Detectives or Crime Stoppers at 412-255-8477. All calls can remain anonymous.