COLUMBUS, Ga. ( WTVM /Gray News) – Police are investigating after a newborn baby was found alive in a dumpster at a motel in Columbus, Georgia.

The discovery was made when someone heard the baby crying around 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Budgetel Inn on Victory Drive.

Police confirm the baby is alive and was taken to Piedmont Columbus Regional Hospital. The condition of the baby has not been released.

The Columbus Police Department’s Special Victims Unit is leading the investigation and is working closely with the Division of Family and Children Services to ensure the child’s safety and determine next steps for care.

Authorities are reminding everyone of the safe, legal, and anonymous way to surrender a newborn up to 30 days old in the state.

A parent may leave their baby with staff at

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