Suspect identified after abandoned newborn found crying near Houston dumpster: Police

The infant is believed to be in good health, police said.

July 24, 2024, 5:06 PM

A suspect has been identified after an abandoned newborn was found crying by a dumpster in Houston, police said Wednesday.

A person called 911 early Sunday afternoon reporting that they had heard a baby crying near a dumpster at an apartment complex, according to Houston Police Department spokesperson Jodi Silva.

PHOTO: First responders rescue a newborn who was found alive in a dumpster at an apartment complex in Houston, July 21, 2024.
First responders rescue a newborn who was found alive near a dumpster at an apartment complex in Houston, July 21, 2024.
Obtained by ABC News

First responders found the infant in the dumpster area, Silva said. Video captured by a bystander showed first responders rescuing the baby from the dumpster and appearing to swaddle him in a blanket.

The newborn was transported to a local hospital and is believed to be in good health, Silva said.

Child Protective Services has since taken custody of him, she said. It is unclear how long the infant was by the dumpster.

PHOTO: Police investigate after a newborn was found abandoned in a dumpster at an apartment complex in Houston, July 23, 2024.
Police investigate after a newborn was found abandoned near a dumpster at an apartment complex in Houston, July 23, 2024.
KTRK

Police have been investigating the incident, including checking surveillance footage, to identify who placed the newborn there and any potential witnesses, Silva said.

Police have since identified a suspect and "are continuing to work through the investigation," Silva said.

No additional details on the suspect have been released at this time, including their alleged connection to the incident. The name of the suspect will not be released until charges have been filed, Silva said.