In a heartbreaking case that unfolded in Phoenix, a newborn baby was discovered alive after enduring several days alone in an apartment beside their deceased mother.

Authorities believe the child’s mother died suddenly around May 14, and the baby was left untouched and unattended until neighbors alerted police, prompting a life-saving response, as Fox10 reports.

Phoenix officers were dispatched to a residential apartment on May 14 for a wellness check after neighbors grew concerned. They noticed mail and packages accumulating at the doorstep and realized they hadn’t seen the woman who lived there in several days. Their suspicions led them to call the police, worried that something might be wrong inside.

Upon arriving at the apartment, officers observed the unit from the outside and saw an unresponsive woman through an open window. With no response at the door and signs of medical distress visible, officers forced entry to assess the emergency.

Inside, they made a startling discovery. A woman lay deceased while a newborn baby, wrapped in a blanket, was found lying next to her. Police believe the woman had passed away while the child was still by her side on the bed, suggesting the baby remained there for several days without care.

Police body cam shows harrowing rescue

Footage from police body cameras captured the emotional and urgent moments as officers entered the apartment and rescued the newborn. Though the infant had not been fed or attended to in days, first responders found the child alert and responsive. Officers moved quickly to get the baby medical attention.

The baby was transported to a nearby hospital, where doctors evaluated their condition. Authorities later confirmed that the child was expected to recover and was reportedly in stable health following the traumatic experience.

Investigators are still working to determine what caused the mother’s death. Police have not yet released her name as they await official autopsy results and notification of next of kin.

Witnesses, police provide key details

Sgt. Brian Bower of the Phoenix Police Department addressed the public after the incident, shedding light on what the officers found and how the rescue unfolded. “The mother had passed away while the child was still on the bed, still curled up where the mother had left them,” Bower said.

He highlighted the importance of community awareness and officer response. “It’s because of the smart, immediate actions of the officers as well as the neighbors seeing something unusual and calling in for help,” he added.

The Department of Child Safety has taken custody of the baby, ensuring that the child has a safe place to stay as the case continues. Officials are actively working to secure the infant’s future.

What promoted fateful wellness check

The wellness check that led to the discovery began with vigilant neighbors. After noticing several uncollected packages and the silence surrounding the apartment, they took the responsible step of contacting local authorities. Their decision likely saved a life.

Police later confirmed that based on evidence and the estimated timing of the woman’s death, the baby may have survived without care for several days in the apartment. This revelation has stunned community members and raised awareness about similar risks in isolated living situations.

The case serves as a tragic example of what can happen when sudden medical emergencies go unnoticed. It also highlights the critical role neighbors can play in checking on one another, especially when someone’s routine suddenly stops.

Lessons to learn

1. Check in on neighbors, especially those who live alone or recently had major life changes. In this case, the mother’s death could have gone unnoticed for even longer if not for observant neighbors who took action.

2. Do not hesitate to request a wellness check if anything seems wrong. Local police departments treat these calls seriously and can assess situations that may prevent a greater tragedy, as happened here.

3. Ensure accessible support systems for new parents. It’s important that relatives, friends, and local groups offer regular check-ins or assistance. While crime and tragedy can affect anyone, community support may reduce the risk of such isolated incidents. Victims are never to blame, and society must work together for prevention and compassion.

Why this story matters

This story is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly a private tragedy can impact the most vulnerable, in this case, a newborn infant. It underscores the role of community vigilance in saving lives.

Recognizing the signs and acting swiftly helped avert what could have been a second unimaginable loss.