Incident details
Police in Longueuil, Quebec, are investigating after a newborn baby boy was left on a doorstep Sunday night around 11 p.m. ET. The infant was found swaddled in a blanket, with his umbilical cord still attached, according to authorities. The people inside the residence on Bourgeoys Street promptly called 9-1-1, and paramedics and police provided medical care before the child was transported to a hospital. Public officials say the baby is currently in good health.
The Service de police de l’agglomération de Longueuil (SPAL) confirmed that the infant was born at about 34 weeks gestation. The — a detail later described by spokesperson Mélanie Mercille — adds to the concern surrounding the decision to abandon a newborn. In a statement to Radio-Canada, Mercille indicated that information from the public has prompted investigators to extend checks to Marguerite Bourgeoys Park, a nearby location near the residence where the baby was found.
Investigation underway
SPAL says its officers will conduct door-to-door outreach on Monday to determine whether anyone in the area possesses camera footage that could help identify the baby’s parents or the person who left the infant on the doorstep. In addition to door-to-door inquiries, investigators will perform laboratory analyses to obtain clues that could lead to the person responsible. The aim is to locate the child’s parents and understand the circumstances that led to the alarming abandonment, while ensuring the newborn continues to receive appropriate medical and social support.
Public safety and community impact
Longueuil officials emphasized the importance of public safety and the protection of vulnerable newborns. The incident has prompted questions about the availability of family support services and safe alternatives for parents facing complex or precarious situations. The authorities reiterate that calling 9-1-1 in such cases ensures immediate medical care for the baby and access to social services for the family when appropriate.
Mercille also noted that this case is unusual in her 17-year career with the police, underscoring the sensitivity and urgency of the investigation. Police have not disclosed the gender of the infant’s parent or caregiver, citing ongoing inquiries. The park near the scene was briefly closed to the public on Monday as part of the investigation; authorities say access will be maintained only to permit investigators to continue their work.
How the community can help
Residents are encouraged to review any surveillance footage from surrounding homes or businesses in the Bourgeoys Street area and Marguerite Bourgeoys Park. Anyone with information is urged to contact SPAL or vice to reach out with tips. While investigators pursue leads, they stress that tips can be provided anonymously, and even seemingly minor details can be pivotal in solving these cases.
What comes next
As the investigation unfolds, police will report any progress or new developments. The case serves as a reminder of the availability of support networks for parents facing challenging circumstances. If you or someone you know is at risk or contemplating relinquishing a newborn, local services and hotlines can offer confidential, compassionate assistance to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.
