Austin, September 26, 2025
News Summary
A 22-year-old mother in Austin has been arrested for allegedly abandoning her newborn baby in a dumpster. The child was saved by community members who heard her cries. The mother faces serious charges and is currently in custody. This incident raises awareness about resource options for new parents in crisis, including the Safe Haven Law.
Austin – A 22-year-old mother, Neli Dinora Rivera Felipe, was arrested for allegedly leaving her newborn baby in a dumpster at an apartment complex. The incident transpired on September 20 at around 1:37 p.m. in the 8600 block of North Lamar Boulevard.
Community members were alerted to the newborn’s presence after they heard the baby crying and quickly contacted emergency services for assistance. Upon questioning, Rivera Felipe told police that she believed the baby was dead when she abandoned it. However, police have charged her with abandonment or endangering a child with imminent danger, a charge classified as a second-degree felony.
Rivera Felipe was taken into custody on September 23, with a bond set at $50,000. Authorities have indicated that as the investigation continues, she may face additional charges. Surveillance footage, along with tips from community members, played a crucial role in identifying Rivera Felipe as the mother of the abandoned infant.
The newborn, found in a white bucket with her umbilical cord still attached, was retrieved from the dumpster and taken to Dell Children’s Medical Center, where she is reported to be doing well. Rivera Felipe disclosed that she gave birth in the bathroom of her apartment and expressed feelings of fear and uncertainty regarding how to care for the baby.
The Austin Police Department praised the prompt actions of community members, which enabled first responders to aid the baby quickly. In light of this incident, the department reiterated the existence of the Safe Haven Law in Texas. This law permits parents to surrender children younger than 60 days at designated locations without fear of prosecution, offering a critical resource for individuals facing similar situations.
Angela Peoples from the Department of Family and Protective Services encouraged individuals in crisis to seek support and provided information for the Baby Moses hotline at 1-877-904-7283. The investigation is still active, with no other suspects identified at this time.
Key Background Information
This incident highlights the ongoing conversations surrounding maternal challenges and support systems for new parents. In instances where individuals may feel overwhelmed, resources such as the Safe Haven Law and hotlines are established to prevent tragedies like this one from occurring.
FAQ
What charges has Neli Dinora Rivera Felipe faced?
She faces a charge of abandonment or endangering a child with imminent danger, which is classified as a second-degree felony.
What happened to the newborn after she was found?
After the baby was retrieved, she was taken to Dell Children’s Medical Center and is reportedly doing well.
What is the Safe Haven Law in Texas?
The Safe Haven Law in Texas allows parents to surrender children younger than 60 days at designated locations without facing prosecution.
How can individuals facing similar circumstances seek help?
Individuals facing similar circumstances are encouraged to seek help and utilize the Baby Moses hotline at 1-877-904-7283.
Key Features
| Date of Incident | Location | Mother’s Name | Charge | Current Status of Baby |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 20 | 8600 block of North Lamar Boulevard, Austin | Neli Dinora Rivera Felipe | Abandonment or endangering a child with imminent danger (second-degree felony) | Recovering at Dell Children’s Medical Center |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Woman Arrested for Abandoning Newborn in North Austin
Arrest Made in Abandoned Newborn Case in Austin
Abandoned Baby Found in Austin Dumpster, Police Make Arrest
Newborn Abandoned in Dumpster in North Austin
Newborn Baby Rescued from Dumpster in North Austin
Newborn Baby Girl Abandoned in North Austin Dumpster
Newborn Baby Found Alive in North Austin Dumpster
Newborn Baby Found Alive in Austin Dumpster
Baby Found Abandoned in Dumpster in North Austin
Baby Girl Found Alive in North Austin Dumpster
Additional Resources
- CBS Austin
- Wikipedia: Safe Haven Law
- FOX 7 Austin
- Google Search: Austin Newborn Dumpster Incident
- KVUE News
- Google Scholar: Abandonment or Endangering a Child
- Austin American-Statesman
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas Child Endangerment Laws
- KSAT News
- Google News: Austin Newborn Abandonment Case
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
