Following the discovery of a “late-term fetus” in a pond by a community member, Virginia authorities have launched a death inquiry.
A community member found the dead baby in the pond behind Park Gate Drive in Leesburg on Monday at around 4:30 p.m., according to a press release from the Leesburg Police Department.
Following the response of emergency services, the area was guarded for more investigation, which according to police was “being treated with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity.”
As stated in the statement, “This is a deeply tragic situation,” Leesburg Police Chief Thea Pirnat said. “We urge anyone with information to come forward, not just for the sake of the investigation, but also to ensure that those in need are provided appropriate medical attention and services.”
According to police, the body was sent to the Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner so that an autopsy could be performed.
The government is pleading with anyone who knows anything about this issue to come forward, stressing that privacy would be maintained and handled tactfully.
“Who may find themselves in distressing situations, including options for the safe and anonymous surrender of newborns under the Virginia Safe Haven laws,” are among the services offered, according to the statement.
