Rothbury, Michigan — Federal and state investigators are intensifying their search for answers after a newborn was found dead inside a portable restroom at the Electric Forest music festival, with the FBI now offering a $15,000 reward for information that leads to the identification, arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible.
The reward announcement comes weeks after the tragic discovery at the popular four-day electronic music festival, which draws thousands of attendees each year to Double JJ Ranch in Rothbury.
Newborn Found During Routine Maintenance
According to the Michigan State Police, the infant’s body was discovered on June 28 inside a porta-potty located in the festival’s camping area.
Authorities said the baby, identified as a neonate, meaning less than 28 days old, was found by an employee from a restroom servicing company while performing routine maintenance.
The discovery immediately prompted a major investigation involving state and federal law enforcement agencies.
Investigators later confirmed that preliminary autopsy results determined the newborn had been born viable and alive, making the circumstances surrounding the death especially concerning.
Woman Interviewed, Later Cleared by Investigators
As part of the investigation, detectives interviewed a woman from Muskegon who had attended the sold-out festival.
Police said investigators believed she might have information relevant to the case.
However, after speaking with her, authorities confirmed that the woman fully cooperated with investigators and has since been eliminated as a suspect.
Officials have not released additional information about other persons of interest or whether they believe multiple individuals may have been involved.
FBI Joins Investigation and Announces Reward
On Monday, the FBI’s Detroit Field Office announced it is formally assisting the Michigan State Police with the ongoing investigation.
Federal officials also announced a $15,000 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for the newborn’s death.
Investigators believe there are still individuals who may know what happened but have not yet spoken with authorities.
“Investigators believe there are individuals with important information relevant to this case who may be reluctant to come forward,” police said.
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Authorities Hope New Leads Will Solve the Case
The Electric Forest Festival, known for hosting dozens of electronic dance music artists, had attracted thousands of festivalgoers when the tragic discovery was made.
Michigan State Police said investigators remain optimistic that continued forensic testing and investigative work will help identify those responsible.
In a statement shared on social media, the agency said it is confident ongoing investigative efforts and advances in forensic science will ultimately lead to a suspect.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the case to contact the Michigan State Police or the FBI. Tips can also be submitted online through the FBI’s official tip reporting system.
The investigation remains active, and no arrests have been announced.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking case? If you attended the festival or know someone who did, do you think more people should come forward with information? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.