Mother Arrested After Infant Found Dead in Dumpster
A 19-year-old mother is in custody after her four-month-old daughter was found dead in a South Los Angeles dumpster.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Babies
Police arrested 19-year-old Takiyah Babers for murder following the discovery of her four-month-old infant in a South Los Angeles housing project dumpster. The child was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
Why it matters
The tragedy has prompted a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the infant's death after she was dropped off at the location by her foster grandparents.
Takiyah Babers is currently held on a $2 million bail after being arrested for murder. The case has been referred to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office to determine formal charges.
The players
Takiyah Babers
She is a 19-year-old woman who has been arrested by police on murder charges regarding the death of her four-month-old child.
Laura Lacy
She is the foster grandmother of the deceased infant who identified the child.
Herman Johnson
He is the foster grandfather of the deceased infant who participated in dropping the child off at the housing project.
Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office
This is the primary legal body responsible for reviewing evidence to determine the formal criminal charges filed in the case.
The details
The infant was discovered at approximately 10:30 p.m. on Monday after being left at the South Los Angeles housing project by foster grandparents Laura Lacy and Herman Johnson. Authorities confirmed the child was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Timeline
September 28, 2026: The foster grandparents dropped off the infant.
September 28, 2026, 10:30 p.m.: The infant was discovered in a dumpster.
Legal Context
This incident is being handled under existing California homicide statutes regarding child fatalities. Prosecutors must now determine how the specific actions of the suspect align with state penal codes regarding the death of a minor.
Local residents in the South Los Angeles area may see increased law enforcement presence while the investigation into the housing project site continues. No additional security advisories have been issued to the general public at this time.
The takeaway
This case highlights the tragic risks faced by infants caught in complex foster care transitions. Community members seeking to assist vulnerable families can look for resources through established local child protective services.
Further reading
For more information on regional support services, visit the Los Angeles Babies section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Ktiv.
