After nearly four decades, investigators have identified the infant long known only as “Baby Doe,” who was found deceased at the Monastery Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand in 1987. Advances in DNA technology and investigative genealogy have finally given the child an identity, allowing the community to remember him with dignity.
In late 2025, the Dubois County Prosecutor’s Office filed charges of murder and voluntary manslaughter against the child’s biological mother, who was a juvenile at the time of the incident. After recently receiving a request for information about the case, the Prosecutor’s Office decided to release a preliminary press statement. The case remains pending.
As the legal process moves forward, officials emphasized the importance of approaching the case with sensitivity and compassion.
“This has always been about honoring the life of a child who could not speak for himself,” said Prosecutor Beth Schroeder. “Thanks to science and the perseverance of the Indiana State Police Cold Case Unit, we are able to close one chapter of this case while remembering the human circumstances surrounding it.”
Authorities noted that the pregnancy was unintended and that the defendant was a minor at the time. While the seriousness of the charges reflects the loss of life, officials stressed that the case also underscores the challenges faced by young people in crisis.
“Justice and compassion can walk hand in hand,” Schroeder said. “Our responsibility is not only to pursue accountability, but also to recognize the difficult realities that may have led to this tragedy.”
For decades, “Baby Doe” represented an unanswered question for the community. With his identity now restored, officials hope a measure of peace can be found, even as the judicial process continues.
Out of respect for privacy and legal considerations, additional details will not be released at this time.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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