Tampa Republic

Tampa Police responded to a distressing scene near McKay Hall at the University of Tampa on April 28, 2024, where they discovered the body of a deceased infant. The newborn female was found wrapped in a towel and placed in a garbage bin. The authorities have since transported the infant's body to the Medical Examiner's office for further investigation to determine the cause of death and developmental stage.

Chief Bercaw expressed, "The loss of a child is always a tragedy," highlighting the somber nature of the situation. As the investigation unfolds, the mother of the child has been located and taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation.

In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, the Tampa Police Department is urging expectant mothers to be aware of the resources available to them. It was emphasized that Florida upholds a Safe Haven Law, allowing parents to safely surrender an unharmed newborn infant seven days old or younger to designated locations without facing repercussions.

For expectant mothers in challenging circumstances, various resources are accessible, including the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, the Florida Department of Health's Maternal & Child Health Section, and the National Safe Haven Alliance Hotline.

The investigation into this tragic event is ongoing, with updates to be shared with the public as they become available. Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Tampa Police Department.

The Tampa Police Department can be reached at 306 East Jackson Street, Tampa, Florida 33602, or by phone at (813) 274-8211 for any inquiries or assistance needed.