It has been two weeks since detectives with the Travis County Sheriff’s Office began working the case of a newborn baby’s body discovered in a shallow grave along a riverbank. With few leads to follow, the sheriff’s office is seeking the public’s help finding the mother in hopes of piecing together the events that lead to the baby’s death.
“This baby wasn’t buried. She was discarded; thrown away.” said Homicide Sergeant Sylvia Leal, “The body was left in the woods, lying in a very shallow depression. It’s a miracle she was found so soon after being left. I believe we are meant to find the answers she deserves.”
In an effort to provide her with a bit of dignity, the baby has been given a name by the Travis County Sheriff’s Office: Ivy.
Evidence collected leaves room for many possibilities, officials said.
“So far, the autopsy results haven’t revealed if Ivy was born alive or not, said Detective Ben Wright. “She could have been still-born and the mother panicked. She could also have been a live birth, then discarded. There are homeless camps in the area, and we can’t rule out the possibility the mother is transient, but it’s also possible this was a case of abuse, covered up by someone involved. We’re concerned for the mother’s safety and are trying to find her.”
At approximately 8:30 am on August 24, 2021, deputies responded to a report of a deceased person in the 11800 block of Old San Antonio Rd. A fisherman reportedly discovered Ivy. It is estimated she may have been there several days, perhaps a week. An autopsy was conducted August 25, 2021 and final results are pending.
“I’m so grateful to the man who found Ivy for calling 911 and reporting it,” said Sheriff Sally Hernandez. “I believe someone knows something about the mother. Even one small piece of information might be all we need to determine what happened. I’m asking anyone who has knowledge of the incident or the identity of the mother to call. We want to make sure this mom is safe and bring Ivy the closure she deserves.”
