Federal authorities have joined the investigation into the death of an infant discovered at the Electric Forest music festival in Rothbury, Michigan. The FBI is now offering a reward of up to $15,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of those responsible, according to the Michigan State Police. The infant’s body was found in a portable toilet on June 28, the final day of the event held at the Double JJ Ranch.
Investigation Status and Forensic Findings
While the investigation remains ongoing, Michigan State Police have confirmed that preliminary autopsy results indicate the infant was viable and born alive. The discovery was initially made by an employee of a sanitation company contracted to clean portable toilets in the festival’s “Good Life” camping area. As of July 15, investigators have not identified the parent or parents of the child, and no arrests have been made in connection with the death.
Authorities previously identified and interviewed a woman from Muskegon who was believed to have information regarding the case. Following that interview, officials confirmed she was cooperative and has since been eliminated as a suspect. Police have urged the public to avoid speculation, noting that they are withholding specific evidence to protect the integrity of the active investigation.
Call for Public Assistance
Law enforcement officials maintain that there are individuals who possess critical information but have not yet come forward. The Michigan State Police and the FBI are actively soliciting tips from the 50,000 attendees who were present at the four-day electronic music gathering between June 25 and June 28.
Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Michigan State Police by submitting a tip through their online portal or by calling the dedicated tip line at 1-855-MICH-TIP (1-855-642-4847).
Electric Forest Event Context
The incident occurred during the final hours of the annual Electric Forest festival, a major electronic music event that features multiple stages and extensive camping facilities on the Double JJ Ranch grounds. The 2024 edition of the festival hosted a diverse lineup of artists, including Kaskade, Excision, and Griz. Despite the large attendance, officials have focused their inquiry specifically on the circumstances surrounding the death of the infant discovered within the festival’s infrastructure on the event’s closing day.
Key Facts Regarding the Case
- Discovery Date: June 28, 2024.
- Location: Double JJ Ranch, Rothbury, Michigan.
- Autopsy Status: Preliminary findings confirm the infant was born alive.
- Reward: Up to $15,000 offered by the FBI for actionable information.
- Reporting Channel: 1-855-MICH-TIP or the official MSP website.