Arrest made after newborn baby found in Columbus dumpster
CNAW2News has confirmed via jail records that an arrest has been made in connection with the newborn baby who was found in a Columbus dumpster.
22-year-old Zinnia Hernandez was arrested on September 4, 2025, on charges of criminal attempt to commit a felony – murder, cruelty to children – first degree, reckless conduct, and abandonment of a dependent child. The offense lists the date of September 2, 2025, which is the day police responded to a newborn baby being discovered in a dumpster.
The baby boy was found in a dumpster, located at the Budgetel Inn and Suites on Victory Drive. The baby boy was transported to Piedmont Columbus Regional and is receiving medical treatment in the NICU.
Columbus police said in a statement they are working closely with DFCS to ensure the child’s safety and determine next steps for care.
Hernandez is scheduled for her first appearance in court on September 5, 2025, at 1:30 P.M. The Columbus Police Department’s Special Victims Unit remains investigating the case.
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