A young American woman has been arrested in Paris for allegedly throwing a newborn baby out of a hotel window, resulting in the infant’s death.
The incident involving the 18-year-old occurred early Monday morning at an Ibis Styles hotel, according to Le Parisien. Sources indicate the woman was part of a group of young people touring Europe.
“We are extremely shocked and saddened by this tragedy, and our hearts go out to all those affected during this very difficult time,” EF Gap Year, based in Massachusetts, stated to Digital on Wednesday. The organization confirmed the woman was participating in one of their programs.
“We are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation by local authorities. Counseling is being offered to all members of the group, and we are providing support to the families involved,” the statement continued, without identifying the woman.
After the newborn was allegedly thrown from the hotel’s second-story window, emergency services transported the baby to a hospital, where it was pronounced dead.
The child protection unit in Paris is investigating the case, considering the being under 15 years of age.
Authorities are exploring the possibility of pregnancy denial, a condition where a woman is either unaware of or denies her pregnancy until she goes into labor.
EF Gap Year’s website states that its program is designed for individuals aged 18-22.
“Explore the world on the definitive, global gap year: discover Europe, Asia, and Australia through a blend of guided exploration and cultural immersion,” the website says. “Travel across three continents, then discover what it’s like to live independently abroad while learning a language or interning.”