Newborn Baby Found on Doorstep in London, Ontario
A newborn baby found on a doorstep in London, Ontario, has sparked a police investigation and a plea for public help. A passerby discovered the baby boy, believed to be just one day old, wrapped in a flannel blanket outside a home on Sterling Street in the city’s east end. His mother wrote a note saying she could no longer care for him and asked that someone give him a good home.
The baby is now safe and receiving medical care. Police are urgently trying to locate the mother, citing concerns for her health and well-being.
Baby Discovered Wrapped in Blanket
Someone discovered the baby outside Bria Vanier’s home on Sterling Street, just off Oxford Street. A passerby heard the baby’s cries around midday and called 911. Moments later, two police officers arrived and knocked on Vanier’s door.
“I opened the door and there’s a baby on the doormat, wrapped in a flannel blanket,” Vanier told CBC News. “It was a little surprising.”
Mother Left a Note Asking for Help
Vanier found a note with the baby that asked for the child to be given a good home. It mentioned that the baby was born at home, didn’t like bright lights, and needed care the mother could not provide.
“It’s clear this mother was in crisis,” Vanier said. “I have empathy for her. This was someone who must have been in pain.”
Vanier brought the baby inside, held him close, and kept him warm until paramedics arrived. She said the baby was alert and looked around curiously.
Police Assure Public: Baby Is Safe
The London Police Service confirmed the baby is in good health and receiving medical care. Their primary concern now is locating the mother to ensure she also gets appropriate medical attention.
“We’re very concerned about her safety,” said Det. Insp. Sean Travis. “The infant appears well cared for, but the process of support, whether adoption or reunification, can only begin once we find her.”
Community Urged to Help Locate Mother
Police are asking residents in the area to check any security footage from Wednesday, April 9, especially those living on Sterling Street north of Oxford Street between 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. ET.
Anyone with information can contact the London Police Service at 519-661-5670 or submit a report anonymously through CrimeStoppers.
Rare but Heartbreaking Case
Police say situations like this are extremely rare and emotionally impactful for first responders and investigators.
“Our goal is the safety of everyone involved,” said Travis. “From there, we allow community resources and support systems to guide what happens next.”
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