Norwalk police have arrested a woman and her father on first-degree murder charges after investigators say a newborn was left to die and its body discarded. Authorities said 25-year-old Megan Staude gave birth at her home in late February. The house now sits boarded up, with warning signs posted that read “unsafe to occupy.”
Concerns about the baby’s well-being first arose from Megan Staude’s coworkers, who became suspicious when they noticed she was no longer pregnant, but her explanations did not add up. They contacted police on March 8, prompting an investigation.
Local CBS affiliate KCCI reported that the following day, March 9, law enforcement officers and professional search volunteers discovered the body of a newborn along Delaware Street, just a few miles from the Staude home. Cadaver dogs were used to locate the remains.
According to police, Megan Staude’s father, Rodney Staude, assisted her in disposing of the baby’s body. Investigators say the infant had been carried to full term and was born alive, though the exact cause of death has not been determined. The state medical examiner has performed an autopsy, and the results are pending.
Officials emphasized that the investigation remains active. Neighbors expressed shock as details of the case emerged. Chris Hentschel, who lives nearby, told KCCI he knew Megan had been pregnant but was unaware she had delivered. “We knew she was pregnant. We didn’t know she delivered it,” Hentschel said. “We had no idea.”
He said news of the arrests left him shaken. “Honestly, I was pretty appalled. Not really surprised though, just cause the vibe they gave. They were kinda weird.” Hentschel reflected on the tragedy, saying the baby’s life had been unfairly cut short.
“This newborn baby didn’t have anything to do with coming into this world,” he said. “And you’re just like, nope, it’s not acceptable.” Norwalk police have not released further information on what led to the child’s death, but confirmed both Megan and Rodney Staude face first-degree murder charges.
They remain in custody as the case continues to develop. The disturbing discovery has left the community searching for answers while investigators work to piece together the circumstances that led to the newborn’s death.