Worcester

2 Accused of Concealing Death of Newborn Face Judge

Two people faced a judge on charges of concealing the death of a newborn.

Two people faced a judge Tuesday on charges of concealing the death of a newborn whose remains were discovered in a garbage bag in Massachusetts.

Worcester police say officers found the bag containing the body in a wooded area behind 375 Lake Ave. on Monday after talking to a man who reported an unusual odor.

"They left, and I went in to clean the basement better and I saw the black construction bag, and it stunk of death," said property owner Mark Healy. "I opened it up and there was blood in there, and that's when I went to the police."

While investigating, officers saw 31-year-old Edwin Santiago and 36-year-old Jennifer Rheume walking on the railroad tracks behind Santiago's residence.

The two were arrested and charged with walking on railroad tracks.

Police say that after further investigation, the two were also charged with removal of a human body and concealment of the death of a child.

Police say it's unknown whether the baby was alive at the time of delivery. Authorities are waiting for results from the medical examiner's autopsy.

Neighbors say they are shocked.

"I can't imagine having a baby in that situation," Becky Guerrero said. "It's heartbreaking."

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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