Montes Claros police investigate fetus found in thermal lunch box

A human fetus was discovered inside a thermal lunch box by a recyclable materials collector in a condominium in the Vila Mauricéia neighborhood of Montes Claros, Minas Gerais. The discovery occurred on Monday morning near a trash bin.

The fetus, which appeared to be between five and six months of gestation, was wrapped in a small cloth or handkerchief. Alongside the body, authorities found a crucifix and a note, though the contents of the message have not been released. Forensic experts noted that the body showed no signs of decomposition, suggesting it had been left at the location shortly before being found.

The Civil Police of Minas Gerais have opened an investigation to determine the circumstances of the abandonment and to identify the person responsible. Investigators suspect the case may involve a clandestine abortion. The inquiry will involve analyzing forensic reports, medical examiner findings from the Legal Medical Institute (IML), and local surveillance footage. The collector and a resident who reported the incident are expected to be interviewed.