Mother Charged with Murder After Newborn Found in Pond
In a tragic development, authorities in New Hampshire have made an arrest nearly a year after the body of a newborn girl was discovered floating in Pine Island Pond. Hepay Juma, a 26-year-old resident of Manchester, was taken into custody on Thursday, February 26, and charged with reckless second-degree murder in the death of her child, known as Baby Jane "Grace" Doe.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
The New Hampshire Attorney General's Office issued a statement confirming the arrest, describing the circumstances as "manifesting an extreme indifference to the value of human life." Juma is scheduled to be arraigned on Friday, February 27, in Manchester District Court. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation into this heartbreaking case remains ongoing, with no further details disclosed about the infant's death or potential involvement of others.
The exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain under active investigation, according to the release, urging anyone with information to come forward.
Discovery and Community Response
The baby, named Grace by local authorities to honor her brief life, was found in Pine Island Pond on March 27, 2025. Initially, police appealed to the public for assistance in identifying the newborn and determining how she ended up in the water, describing her simply as a "newborn baby." In May 2025, with the child's identity still unknown, volunteers and local officials held a small funeral for Baby Grace, laying her to rest in a white coffin.
Manchester Police Chief Peter Marr expressed the community's sorrow last year, stating, "The way she was discarded is heartbreaking, and it is important that we give her a proper farewell." Pine Island Pond, a scenic area near the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport with walking trails and a playground, has been a focal point of community attention since the discovery.
Ongoing Investigation and Appeals
As the legal proceedings move forward, authorities continue to investigate the case thoroughly. The arrest marks a significant step in seeking justice for Baby Grace, but many questions remain unanswered. The community and law enforcement are united in their efforts to uncover the full truth behind this devastating event.
Residents and officials alike are reminded of the importance of coming forward with any relevant information that could aid in the investigation, ensuring that such tragedies are addressed with the utmost care and diligence.
