Bishop in Virginia Offers to Assist in Burial of the Unborn Baby Discovered in a Pond


In Virginia, USA, a deceased late-term baby (“late-term fetus”) was discovered in a pond on March 11, 2024. According to the government release, the investigation is being treated with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity.
The Leesburg Police Department was alerted at approximately 4:33 p.m., by a community member who discovered the body of a late-term baby in the pond behind Park Gate Drive, SE in Leesburg. Emergency services responded promptly, and the area was secured for further investigation. The baby was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Virginia, for an autopsy.

"This is a deeply tragic situation," said Leesburg Police Chief Thea Pirnat. "We urge anyone with information to come forward, not just for the sake of the investigation, but also to ensure that those in need are provided appropriate medical attention and services."

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge on the Discovery of Body of Unborn Baby

It is with great sorrow that I learned today of the unsettling discovery of the body of an unborn baby described by police as a “late-term fetus,” found in a pond in Leesburg. The Diocese of Arlington has made it known that we are willing to assist with the proper burial and committal of the remains.

I urge the faithful of the diocese and all people of goodwill to join me in prayer for the child's mother and for anyone involved in this incident.

Through its parishes, ministries and parishioners, the Diocese of Arlington encourages all women who find themselves in unexpected or difficult pregnancies to seek assistance through Gabriel Project (helpforpregnantwomen.org or 703-841-3810), Catholic Charities (ccda.net or 703-973-0129), or the nearest Catholic Church.

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