Police investigating case of baby abandoned on doorstep in TH

Lucy Perry photo

By Lucy Perry
Indiana Central News

The City of Terre Haute recently found itself in  situation that many other communities across the nation have already prepared itself for by providing a safe drop off point for abandoned babies.

Wednesday, a newborn baby --with umbilical cord still intact-- was left on a doorstep of an abandoned house on the city's south side. A passerby noticed the car seat oddly placed on the porch and found the infant. He took her to the nearby firehouse, on Hulman Street.

Terre Haute Fire Department personnel were able to safely examine the baby after she was found at the Cruft Street house and brought to them. The transported her to  a nearby hospital, where officials say she is doing well.

Now, officials are planning to get a Baby Box installed at a fire station.

According to its website, "a Baby Box is a safety device provided for under state’s Safe Haven Law and legally permits a mother in crisis to safely, securely, and anonymously surrender if they are unable to care for their newborn. A Baby Box is installed in an exterior wall of a designated fire station or hospital. It has an exterior door that automatically locks upon placement of a newborn inside the Baby Box, and an interior door which allows a medical staff member to secure the surrendered newborn from inside the designated building. "



Please contact the Terre Haute Police Department regarding information on this case.