Mom detained for abandoning newborn at Manhattan subway station Police report
Authorities have arrested a 30-year-old mother for abandoning her newborn at a subway station in Midtown Manhattan. Assa Diawara was taken into custody on charges of child abandonment and endangering the welfare of a child.
Incident Details
The baby girl was discovered on October 20, 2025, at the southbound 1 train platform of the 34th Street-Penn Station during the busy Monday morning rush hour. Wrapped in a blanket, the infant was found in stable condition and transported to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation.
Police Investigation
- The New York Police Department (NYPD) initiated an investigation following the discovery of the abandoned baby.
- Surveillance footage was released in an attempt to identify the mother.
- NYPD officials tracked Diawara’s movements after she took a car service to Jamaica, Queens.
- During canvassing efforts, a neighbor recognized her from the footage.
Detectives confronted Diawara, who eventually admitted to abandoning her newborn. The investigation underscores the ongoing issues surrounding child abandonment in urban areas.
Legal Protections
New York laws permit parents to leave a newborn in designated safe places, such as hospitals, police stations, or fire stations, within 30 days of birth. This law, known as the Abandoned Infant Protection Act, allows parents to remain anonymous and avoid prosecution as long as the baby is left in a safe environment and the appropriate authorities are notified.
This case has sparked discussions about the resources available for new parents in distress and the importance of ensuring the safety of newborns.
