10 March 2024 , 20:39
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A kidnapped baby sadly died despite being found and rushed to hospital. Police have confirmed a criminal investigation has been launched.
A massive search was launched following Halo Branton being reportedly snatched in the night while wrapped in a Minnie Mouse blanket.
The baby girl went missing from Schenectady in New York State, US, yesterday (March 9) evening with police alerted at around 11pm when 911 was called. She was found today near the GE Campus.
Speaking to reporters, Lieutenant Ryan Macherone confirmed she had passed away at a conference today regarding the incident. At times looking at the edge of tears, Macherone said: "I'm saddened to report today that she passed away this afternoon."
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Halo R Branton has been abducted (nyspolice/Twitter)He later confirmed that because a criminal investigation has been launched there's only a limited amount of information that can be released. Because of this he repeatedly refused to answer reporters' questions following his statement.
Lt Macherone said: "It's to be treated as a criminal investigation. The New York State Police are working side-by-side on this. We're at the infancy of the investigation at this point."
After being asked what it's like to announce a baby dying, the lieutenant said: "It's probably the worst thing that will ever happen (in his career). Most likely. "
Appearing about to weep, Macherone said: "I'm standing here before you to announce the death of an 11-month-old child. There's nothing good about that."
He also urged anyone with information to come forward and for anyone in the area to check their doorbell cams.
An abrupt update from the New York State police read: "Amber Alert Cancelled. Halo has been located. Thank you to everyone for your support." US Watch, an organisation designed to help the public organise and look for missing children, also joined in the search.
Before going missing, Halo was seen on 12th Street at Campbell Ave. in Schenectady at around 9.15pm on Saturday, March 9, 2024. She was wearing white sweatpants with brown & tan flowers, a long-sleeve, light pink shirt with a butterfly design, and had a Minnie Mouse blanket.
A previous update from the police: "The Schenectady Police Department has activated the New York State AMBER Alert and is investigating a child abduction that occurred near Campbell Avenue and 12th Street, in Schenectady at about 9:15 PM on 3/9/2024."
Police have not yet revealed who may have kidnapped her or how the kidnapping was carried out. Authorities have not released any additional information.
No information has been released about any suspects.
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