A grim discovery was made yesterday evening at the University of Tampa when a dead infant was found abandoned in a garbage bin on campus, local police have confirmed. The Tampa Police Department, in a news release, stated they've begun to determine exactly what transpired. The baby was reportedly wrapped in a towel and left in the trash near McKay Hall dormitory. In a move that swiftly kicked an investigation into gear, officers found the infant's body at the school's 401 W Kennedy Boulevard campus, according to NBC Miami.
Amidst the ongoing inquiry, the mother of the infant was located and has since been taken to a hospital, although her name and the specifics of the abandonment have not been released to the public. "The loss of a child is always a tragedy," Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said. He pointed out that Florida's "Safe Haven Law" permits the surrender of any newborn baby seven days old or younger at designated safe spots, like fire stations or hospitals, no questions asked. He added, "As our department actively investigates this incident, we want all expectant mothers to know there are resources available," as obtained by NBC Miami.
The University of Tampa sent a text alert to students at 11:41 p.m. yesterday regarding the police investigation centered on McKay Hall, a dorm building that houses approximately 160 students. A spokesperson from the university told Fox News Digital, "There is no danger to the university community," and clarified that "the University of Tampa is not nor has been on lockdown as a result of this incident."
Authorities emphasized that there was "no threat to the public" and the circumstances surrounding the baby's death are currently under thorough investigation. While they work to uncover the tragic sequence of events, the university stands prepared to offer counseling and resources to those affected within the campus community, Assistant Vice President for Communications and Public Affairs Eric Cardenas told Fox News Digital. Video footage from late Sunday captured forensic teams from the department working near the dormitory, as reported by Fox 13.
