Detroit Police Investigate Case of 16-Year-Old Who Allegedly Gave Birth and Left Newborn on Porch
Detroit, Michigan — Authorities are investigating a disturbing case after a newborn baby was found abandoned on a porch of a west side Detroit home late Thursday night. Police sources now believe the infant’s mother was a 16-year-old girl living at the same residence who allegedly gave birth, left the baby outside, and later acted as though she had just discovered it.
Police Respond to Late-Night 911 Call
According to officials, Detroit police received a 911 call about a baby found outside a home in the 15300 block of Cruse Street, near Fenkell Avenue, around Thursday night. The caller, identified as a woman who lives at the address, reported discovering the infant and immediately sought help.
When officers arrived, the baby was found alive and was quickly taken to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation. Authorities confirmed that the child appeared to be a newborn, still showing signs of having been recently delivered.
Teen Suspect Reportedly Gave Birth at Home
Police sources told investigators that the current working theory is that the 16-year-old girl—who also resides in the home—gave birth to the baby herself. After delivering the infant, she allegedly placed the child on the porch and then alerted her grandmother, pretending she had just found the baby outside.
The grandmother, unaware of the true circumstances, called 911, sparking the investigation that would soon reveal the suspected chain of events.
Child Abuse Investigation Underway
The case has since been turned over to Detroit’s Child Abuse Investigation Unit, which is now overseeing all aspects of the situation. Authorities have not yet announced whether the teenage mother will face any charges.
Officials say the infant is safe and in state custody while social services and investigators continue to assess the household environment and the health of the young mother.
Community and Legal Response
Community advocates and child welfare groups say the incident highlights the need for more awareness about Michigan’s Safe Delivery Law, which allows parents to safely surrender newborns to hospitals, police stations, or fire departments with no legal penalty if done within 72 hours of birth.
Investigators emphasize that the case remains under active review, and additional details will be released as evidence and interviews are completed.
For continuing updates on this developing story and other local safety reports, follow WaldronNews.com for verified coverage from across Michigan and the Midwest.