Infant abandoned in restroom trash can at California gas station

An infant was found abandoned in a trash can at a Fullerton gas station on Thursday, March 9, and authorities were searching for the mother, police said.

Around 3:30 p.m., authorities were called to a Chevron gas station in the 900 block of Orangethorpe Avenue about an abandoned baby, according to Fullerton Police Lt. Tim Kandler. The infant was found in a trash can in a restroom at the gas station.

The baby was crying but in good health, and taken to a hospital, Kandler said.

It was not immediately clear if the mother gave birth at the gas station.

Authorities completed their investigation at the gas station Thursday afternoon, and were continuing to search for the mother. A description of the mother or a suspect vehicle was not immediately available.

Under California’s Safe Haven Law, the parent of a newborn infant can anonymously surrender the baby within three days to a hospital emergency room or a designated fire station. As long as the baby has not been abused or neglected, the person will not face arrest or prosecution.