A horrifying incident has shaken Paris after an 18-year-old American tourist allegedly threw her newborn baby from a hotel window, just moments after giving birth. The tragic event unfolded at the Ibis Style hotel, a budget accommodation located on Rue des Reglises, in the city’s 20th arrondissement, near Place de la Nation.
Disturbing Discovery
According to reports, the newborn was thrown from the second-floor window of the hotel with the umbilical cord still attached. A witness, who was nearby at the time, heard loud screams and immediately alerted emergency services. When authorities arrived, they discovered the baby wrapped in a sheet, severely injured, and struggling to survive. The infant was rushed to Robert Debré Hospital, but despite medical efforts, the baby tragically succumbed to the injuries.
Teen Mother Under Investigation
The young woman, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, was on a trip to Europe with a group of young adults when the horrifying event took place. Investigators believe that she may have been suffering from pregnancy denial, a psychological condition in which a woman remains unaware or refuses to acknowledge her pregnancy until the moment of birth. Reports suggest that the birth was unexpected, occurring in the hotel room where she was staying.
After delivering the baby, she allegedly threw the infant out of the window. Paris prosecutors confirmed that she was immediately arrested and charged with child murder. The Paris Prosecutor’s Office issued a statement saying:
“She was also taken into custody on-site. The possibility of a denial of pregnancy is being considered.”
Legal Proceedings and Potential Charges
Authorities have opened an investigation into “homicide of a minor under 15”, a serious criminal charge under French law. The young woman was transported to a hospital for medical treatment following her delivery, where she underwent surgery. After her medical condition stabilized, she was formally placed under police custody for interrogation.
Psychological Factors and Previous Similar Cases
This case raises concerns about pregnancy denial, a rare psychological phenomenon in which women remain unaware of their pregnancy or fail to acknowledge it due to extreme emotional distress. Experts believe that women experiencing this condition may dissociate from reality, leading to impulsive and tragic actions after childbirth.
A similar case occurred in Germany in 2023, where a woman, Katarina Jovanovic, was convicted of manslaughter after throwing her newborn 12 feet from her apartment window. The woman allegedly admitted to the crime, stating that she was afraid that having a child would ruin her career.
Public Reactions and Investigations
The shocking nature of this crime has sparked widespread outrage and discussions on mental health, pregnancy denial, and legal accountability. Parisian authorities continue to investigate the exact circumstances of the incident, attempting to uncover whether the woman acted alone or if others were aware of her condition before the incident.
A person close to the case told Paris Match:
“The investigation is underway, and the precise circumstances of this tragedy remain to be established.”
Awaiting Further Developments
As the investigation unfolds, more details are expected to emerge regarding the teen’s mental state, her knowledge of the pregnancy, and whether any external factors played a role in the crime. The case has drawn international attention, raising concerns about mental health awareness and the need for better support for young mothers in distress.
Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.