A 32-year-old ShopRite employee has been taken into custody after her newborn son was found abandoned in a staff toilet at the supermarket in White Plains, New York.
Police were called to the store at the City Center shopping complex early on Sunday, 30 August, after another employee discovered the baby and dialled 911. Staff cared for the infant until emergency crews arrived.
According to White Plains police, the woman had given birth at about 11pm on Saturday and the baby remained in the bathroom for roughly seven hours before he was found. She was also receiving medical treatment after giving birth outside hospital and was reported to be in a stable condition.
The newborn was given urgent medical attention at the scene and taken to White Plains Hospital, where he remains in a stable condition. Westchester County Child Protective Services is helping to arrange his future care.
White Plains police said the woman, who lives locally and works at the supermarket, was in custody while investigators consulted the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office over possible charges. No charges had been announced.
A ShopRite spokesperson said store associates had immediately contacted emergency services and cared for the baby until first responders arrived.
Investigators have processed multiple crime scenes and are continuing to interview witnesses. Police have also warned that a photograph circulating on social media purporting to show the infant is not connected to the case.
White Plains police remind public of Safe Haven law
Officials have highlighted New York State’s Safe Haven law, which allows a baby aged 30 days or younger to be surrendered safely and, if requested, anonymously at a hospital, police station or fire station, provided the infant is left with the intention of receiving proper care and the location is promptly reported.
Anyone with information about the incident has been asked to contact the White Plains Police Department on 914-422-6111.
