INDIANAPOLIS – The death of a 2-month-old baby girl on Indy’s west side is being investigated as a homicide.
According to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, officers were dispatched to a residence in the 600 block of Magdalene Lane around 2 p.m. Thursday.
Officers found the 2-month-old child unresponsive.
The young girl was rushed to Riley Hospital but died shortly after arrival.
Child abuse detectives believe the child suffered non-accidental injuries but wouldn’t provide more specific details.
“This is an ongoing investigation. Any type of investigation involving a child is a delicate situation,” said IMPD officer Genae Cook.
Detectives have spoken to the child’s family and caretakers, but so far no arrests have been made.
Experts say the tragic case can serve as an important lesson for parents everywhere.
“If you start feeling frustrated, step back from the child,” said Cook.
Officer Cook urges all parents to ask for help from friends, family even a neighbor if they feel overwhelmed by the pressures of parenting.
“Reach out. Most of your friends and family will not look down on you. This is actually very common,” said Cook.
“Don’t go to that baby and lift that baby up until you are sure it’s not going to result in a tragedy,” said Sandy Runkle with Prevent Child Abuse Indiana.
Runkle also encourages parents to develop a plan and a network of support before a child is born.
According to IMPD’s records, the case marks the 10th homicide involving allegations of abuse of a victim under the age of two over the past three years.
“All babies cry and it’s okay. That’s how they communicate. So know what can you do to relieve that stress, because it is stressful,” said Runkle.
Any parents who need help finding resources can contact 211.
The Marion County Coroner’s Office is working to determine the cause of death.
Anyone with information should contact Det. Stephen Guynn at the IMPD Child Abuse Office at (317) 327-6875 or email him at Stephen.GuynnJr@indy.gov.
