URGENT UPDATE: The NYPD is actively searching for a woman after a newborn baby girl was found abandoned at the 34th Street-Penn Station subway station on the morning of October 20, 2023. Authorities report the infant, still with her umbilical cord attached, was discovered at approximately 9:04 a.m. on the southbound 1 train platform, wrapped in a blanket.
Witnesses say a good Samaritan spotted the baby lying alone in the underpass and immediately alerted a nearby officer. The responding officer promptly followed the witness to the child and called for additional assistance. Officers transported the newborn in a patrol car to NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue for evaluation, where she was reported to be awake and responsive, indicating she had just been born.
Investigators have released surveillance footage of a woman believed to be connected to the abandonment. They are urging anyone with information about her identity or whereabouts to come forward. The woman is wanted for questioning in relation to the potential endangerment of a child’s welfare.
Under New York State’s Abandoned Infant Protection Act, parents may surrender a newborn up to 30 days old without facing legal consequences if the baby is left in a safe location such as a hospital, police station, or firehouse.
Authorities are appealing to the public for help in this critical situation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS (for Spanish, dial 888-57-PISTA). Tips can also be submitted online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org or via X (formerly Twitter) @NYPDTips. All calls and messages are kept confidential.
This developing story raises urgent questions about the safety and welfare of vulnerable infants in urban areas. Your awareness and action could make a difference in this case. Stay tuned for updates as the NYPD continues its investigation.
