Michigan state police confirmed that the body of a neonate, a newborn infant aged four weeks or younger, was discovered in a portable bathroom at the Electric Forest music festival in western Michigan. The finding occurred on Sunday, June 23, 2024, during routine maintenance by an employee of the portable bathroom vendor.
Investigation and appeal for information
Police have urged festival attendees who were in the camping area to come forward with any relevant information. The statement from Michigan state police read: "If you were in the area and observed anything unusual, or if you have information that you believe may be relevant, we encourage you to come forward." They also asked the public to avoid speculation on social media out of respect for the investigation and those affected.
Festival organizers' response
Electric Forest festival organizers expressed their grief in a statement on Sunday night: "It causes us so much pain to have to share this difficult news with you." They described themselves as "heartbroken" and noted that Michigan state police continue to investigate the tragic event. The festival, known for its blend of Robin Hood-Sherwood Forest themes with psychedelic and dance music, ended early on Sunday night due to severe weather, though it resumed into early Monday.
The four-day event, held annually in Rothbury, Michigan, had otherwise been successful, according to the local music scene publication Locals Spins. The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details have been released.
