Teenager Arrested in Connection to Infant Death Outside Blackfoot Medical Center

ByLoading...
Published Jun. 16, 2026, 2:55 AM

Title: Teenager Arrested in Connection to Infant Death Outside Blackfoot Medical Center

Content:

BLACKFOOT, Idaho (TCN) — Local authorities have confirmed the arrest of a teenager following the discovery of a deceased newborn baby outside a medical facility in Blackfoot. Police arrived on the scene after receiving reports of an infant abandoned in a box near the center’s entrance.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the infant girl was already deceased at the time she was left. Law enforcement officials are currently processing the scene and conducting interviews to determine the sequence of events leading up to this tragedy.

The identity of the suspect is being withheld due to their age, and officials have stated that the investigation is ongoing. Community leaders and local health advocates have expressed deep concern regarding the incident, emphasizing the availability of Safe Haven laws in Idaho, which allow parents to surrender a newborn to designated locations without fear of prosecution.

Further updates will be provided as investigators continue to review evidence and consult with the prosecutor's office.

Key Details of the Investigation:

* Incident Location: A medical center in Blackfoot, Idaho.

* Nature of Discovery: An infant girl was found unresponsive inside a box.

* Status of Suspect: A teenager has been taken into custody as part of an active investigation.

* Relevant Legislation: Authorities are reminding the public of Idaho’s Safe Haven laws, which provide a legal and anonymous process for parents to leave infants at safe locations such as hospitals or fire stations.

Title: Investigation Underway Following Discovery at Safe Haven Baby Box

Content:

On October 13, the Blackfoot Police Department responded to an emergency call at the Grove Creek Medical Center regarding a deceased infant discovered inside the facility's Safe Haven Baby Box. According to statements released by the Twin Falls Police Department, the infant was unresponsive upon discovery.

Following an assessment by medical personnel on-site, the Safe Haven Baby Box organization reported that preliminary findings indicate the child had passed away well before being placed into the device. Local law enforcement officials have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the infant's death. Authorities are currently working to determine the identity of the infant and the timeline of events leading up to the discovery. Updates will be provided by the Blackfoot Police Department as the investigation progresses.

Sources & Notes:

* Twin Falls Police Department Official Reports

* Safe Haven Baby Box Statement regarding the Grove Creek Medical Center incident

Title: Investigation Launched Following Discovery of Abandoned Infant in Meridian

Content:

Local authorities have launched an investigation following the tragic discovery of an abandoned newborn in our community. Safe Haven Baby Box has officially addressed the incident, reiterating the legal protections available to parents in crisis and clarifying that this specific case constitutes an illegal surrender under state law.

Founder Monica Kelsey reported that the baby girl was discovered wrapped in a blanket, with the placenta still attached, indicating a recent and high-risk birth. Expressing the gravity of the situation, Kelsey stated, "We are heartbroken. Let this be clear: This is an illegal, deadly abandonment."

This incident serves as a somber reminder that safe surrender options are available for parents who feel unable to care for a newborn. Under state regulations, infants can be surrendered anonymously at designated locations, such as hospitals or fire stations, without fear of prosecution, provided the child is unharmed. Community leaders are urging anyone with information regarding this case to contact local law enforcement immediately to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved.

Key Resources for Parents in Crisis:

* National Safe Haven Alliance: Provides 24/7 confidential support for parents in crisis.

* Local Emergency Services: Designated hospitals and fire stations are equipped to accept safe, legal surrenders.

* Community Support Lines: Reach out to local social services or crisis hotlines if you or someone you know is struggling with an unplanned pregnancy or postpartum health concerns.

### Title: Investigation Follows Arrest in Connection with Infant Death Case

An 18-year-old woman is in custody following an investigation into the death of an infant. On November 22, the Blackfoot Police Department announced the arrest of Angel Newberry in Twin Falls. Newberry was apprehended on a felony warrant for failing to report a death to law enforcement officials and the county coroner. She has since been booked into the Bingham County Jail.

While authorities have confirmed the arrest, they have not yet disclosed the relationship between Newberry and the deceased infant.

The case has drawn attention to the state's Safe Haven laws, which provide a legal and anonymous method for parents in crisis to surrender infants without fear of prosecution. In a statement addressing the incident, the organization Safe Haven Baby Box emphasized the importance of these legal channels, noting that 52 infants have been safely surrendered via their locations since 2017. The organization stated, "These babies have gone on to be quickly adopted by families who have eagerly awaited the chance to adopt an infant. When utilized, the program saves lives and protects women in crisis. However, in any situation where the Safe Haven Law is violated, our organization will work diligently with law enforcement for justice for the infant who is illegally abandoned."

Contextual Details Regarding the Incident:

* Suspect: Angel Newberry, 18.

* Charge: Felony warrant for failing to report a death.

* Location of Arrest: Twin Falls.

* Current Custody: Bingham County Jail.

* Organization Statement: Safe Haven Baby Box advocates for the use of legal surrender boxes to prevent abandonment and ensure infant safety.