Remains of fetus discovered in Modesto trash bin, prompting Sheriff’s Office investigation
The Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the discovery Monday of a fetus in a garbage bin on South Ninth Street in Modesto.
Investigators and medical personnel responded Monday afternoon to the 800 block of South Ninth, where they discovered what appeared to be remains of a deceased infant outside a business.
According to a news release, investigators identified a person of interest and were questioning the individual. The area was canvassed for evidence and authorities were working to identify anyone involved with the incident.
The county Coroner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to verify if the remains are those of an infant and assess the gestational age. An investigation continues.
The Sheriff’s Office issued a reminder that safe options for surrendering a newborn are available in Stanislaus County. A person unable to care for a newborn may take the baby to a Safe Surrender location without fear of prosecution. A baby can be taken to any hospital emergency department. The anonymous state program has a “no shame, no blame” approach.
A parent who reconsiders may reclaim the baby within 14 days, through a reuniting process. The state has a toll-free, hot line with information on safe surrender sites at 877-222-9723, or visit the county Community Services Agency site.
Anyone with information about the South Ninth Street incident may call the detective at 209-525-7114 or report information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 866-602-7463.
This story was originally published March 4, 2025 at 11:41 AM.
