Police officers in Phoenix discovered an emaciated newborn fighting for survival during a welfare check at a local residence in mid-May.

According to the Daily Caller, the infant was rescued on May 14 after officers forced entry into the home where the child’s mother was found dead, and the baby has since made a strong recovery while receiving medical care.

The Phoenix Police Department conducted the welfare check after neighbors grew concerned, having not seen a mother and her baby for several days. Authorities responded to these reports on May 14 to ensure the welfare of the residents.

Officers arrived at the home and looked through a window, where they saw an adult woman who did not appear to be moving. Concerned for her well-being, the officers made quick decisions that would become vital in saving a life.

Realizing the urgency, police forced their way into the house by breaking down the door. Once inside, they discovered the woman had died, while her newborn baby was still alive nearby.

Police Response Likely Saves Infant’s Life

The child was discovered curled up with a blanket on the bed, in the same position where the mother had seemingly left them. According to body camera footage, one of the officers can be heard saying, “The baby’s here,” as they found the infant.

The baby appeared dangerously malnourished and dehydrated. An officer gently lifted the child, coaxing them with, “Come on, come on, come on, little one,” as captured on body cam video.

Emergency responders were already on the scene and ready to act. One officer placed the infant into a stroller and turned the child over to EMTs for immediate medical attention.

Health Emergency Unfolded Over Several Days

Authorities believe the baby may have been alone for close to a week. One officer noted during the response, “[The] mom’s dead. The baby’s probably been in there by itself for at least a week.”

The newborn was transported to a hospital in critical condition, where medical staff began intensive treatment. The severity of the child’s condition underscored the urgency of the police intervention.

In a social media post following the incident, the Phoenix Police Department stated that the baby was “severely dehydrated and clinging to life” at the time of the rescue.

Medical Staff Credits Officers With Quick Thinking

Sgt. Brian Bower of the Phoenix Police told local news outlet AZFamily that the child was still curled up in bed as the mother had left them. Their weak condition made the officers’ rapid action all the more critical.

Hospital staff told police that if officers had not intervened as quickly as they did, the newborn likely would not have survived much longer. The quick decision to enter the home without delay played a major role in saving the baby's life.

“It wasn’t learned until well after the fact from doctors and staff at the hospital that if the police officers didn’t immediately provide aid and didn’t immediately go into the apartment, the child may not have survived much longer,” Bower said.

Infant Recovers, Mother’s Death Still Unexplained

The department has since provided a positive update, reporting the baby is now expected to survive and has shown marked improvement under medical care. “We are happy to report, the infant’s condition has improved greatly,” read another update from the department.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the mother's death. The investigation into the circumstances remains ongoing while the focus remains on the infant's recovery.

The harrowing discovery serves as a sobering reminder of how vital it is to follow up on welfare concerns, with neighbors’ vigilance and officers’ immediate response proving lifesaving in this case.