American Teen Arrested in Paris After Allegedly Throwing Newborn from Hotel Window

Alsharq Tribune - Sarah Benkraouda 

In a tragic incident, an 18-year-old American tourist has been arrested in Paris for allegedly throwing her newborn baby out of a second-floor hotel window.

The incident occurred at the Ibis Styles hotel in the 20th arrondissement.

Emergency services were alerted around 6 a.m. on Monday after witnesses reported hearing screams.

The newborn, still attached to the umbilical cord, was found critically injured and transported to Robert Debré Hospital, where the infant was pronounced dead. 

The young mother was part of a group of American students traveling through Europe on a gap year program organized by EF Gap Year, a Massachusetts-based organization.

She was taken into custody and is currently receiving medical treatment following childbirth.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the homicide of a minor under 15 years old.

One line of inquiry is the possibility of pregnancy denial, a psychological condition where a woman is unaware of or unable to accept her pregnancy until labor. 

EF Gap Year expressed deep shock and sadness over the incident, stating, "We are fully cooperating with local authorities as they continue their investigation."

The organization is offering counseling support to all group members and extending support to the affected families. 

Local residents and hotel guests have been left horrified by the event. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities seeking to establish the precise circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

The U.S. Embassy in Paris is monitoring the situation closely and has expressed deep concern over the incident. 

This heartbreaking case has raised awareness about the phenomenon of pregnancy denial and its potential consequences.

As the investigation continues, support services are being mobilized for those affected by this tragedy.