EAST DONEGAL TOWNSHIP, PA — Police in Pennsylvania are investigating a disturbing case involving a teenage girl who allegedly buried the remains of a fetus in her backyard after taking abortion-inducing medication obtained online.
The Susquehanna Regional Police Department (SRPD) launched an inquiry after the remains were discovered earlier this month at a home in East Donegal Township, according to reports from The Patriot-News, Lancaster Online, and WGAL.
Investigation Unfolds
Authorities were first alerted on March 6 when a witness came forward with information, according to a search warrant application. The witness told police that in April 2024, the teen took a home pregnancy test, which came back positive. A doctor later confirmed the pregnancy, but when she sought an abortion at a clinic, she was reportedly told she was past the legal limit.
Pennsylvania law permits abortion up to 23 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy, but access varies by provider. In cases where the pregnant individual’s health is at risk, exceptions may apply.
Unable to obtain an in-clinic procedure, the teen and her mother allegedly turned to the internet, acquiring medication meant to induce an abortion, The Patriot-News reported.
Shocking Text Messages
According to WGAL, a friend of the teen told authorities that she took the medication on May 9 and, the following day, texted her to say the fetus had been expelled. The teen reportedly described it as a “full baby” and sent an image showing the remains in a white trash bag, with the umbilical cord and placenta still attached.
Further details from the search warrant indicate that she allegedly stored the remains in a container under her bed for two to three weeks before burying them in the backyard.
Forensic Examination and Legal Questions
Dr. Stephen Diamantoni, the Lancaster County coroner, said the remains were in an advanced state of decomposition when recovered. A forensic analysis determined that the cause of death was extreme prematurity before viability, meaning the fetus could not have survived outside the womb. However, the manner of death remains undetermined.
Diamantoni told ABC 27 that the fetus appeared to have been buried for several months before being found.
Ongoing Investigation
As of March 13, no arrests had been made, according to WGAL. The SRPD executed a search warrant after receiving the initial tip and took custody of the remains for further examination.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed whether any charges will be filed, and the SRPD has not responded to requests for further information as of March 15.
The case has sparked discussions around abortion access, legality, and restrictions in Pennsylvania, particularly regarding the options available for individuals who are past the legal limit for termination .