A heartbreaking case has shaken the Memphis community after a newborn baby was discovered dead in a dumpster behind a gas station. Authorities have arrested 45-year-old James Boothe in connection with the incident, which has left residents in shock and mourning the loss of an innocent life.
According to the Memphis Police Department (MPD), Boothe was transporting a juvenile girl under the age of 18 to the hospital when she unexpectedly gave birth. Instead of seeking medical help for the newborn, Boothe allegedly placed the infant inside a dumpster behind a Shell gas station on East Shelby Drive. The tragic discovery was made by a nearby gas station owner, who reported seeing the baby’s body inside the dumpster.
Law enforcement responded quickly to the scene after receiving reports of the abandoned infant. However, the baby had already died before authorities arrived. Surveillance footage provided by the gas station owner showed a man, later identified as Boothe, discarding a trash bag into the dumpster. While the footage suggests the infant may have been inside the bag, the official cause of death has not yet been determined.
The baby’s mother was transported to a hospital and is reported to be in non-critical condition. Details about her identity and medical status have not been released, as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death.
James Boothe has been arrested and charged with abuse of a corpse. At this time, no further charges have been announced, but the case remains under active investigation by the Memphis Police Department. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
This tragic incident has sparked outrage and sorrow in the community, raising questions about the circumstances that led to such a devastating outcome. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on seeking justice for the newborn and providing support to those affected by this heartbreaking event.