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Family assisting Alexandria Police Department in abandoned toddler investigation

By Vernon Miles
Abandoned child at 8 S. Van Dorn Street (image via Alexandria Police Department/Twitter)

(Updated 2:15 p.m.) The Alexandria Police Department (APD) and the Child Welfare Services have launched a joint investigation into the abandonment of a child last night.

APD said the child was dropped off by an unknown person at 8 S. Van Dorn Street around 9:45 p.m. on Wednesday. APD said they are working with members of the child’s family as part of the investigation.

“At present, the abandoned child who was located last night on South Van Dorn Street is safe and doing well in the custody of Alexandria DCHS Child Welfare Services,” APD said in a release. “Detectives with the Alexandria Police Department and social workers of Alexandria DCHS Child Protective Services are currently meeting with members of the family who are assisting with the ongoing joint investigation.”

APD said information would be provided as it becomes public.

“If you have any information regarding this incident please call 703 745 4444,” APD said. “Tips will remain anonymous.”

According to police:

At approximately 9:45 p.m. last night, officers were dispatched to a call regarding witnesses who had observed a man drop off a young child in front of 8 South Van Dorn Street.

Upon arrival, officers located the little girl believed to be between one and two years old, dressed in warm clothing, and in apparent good health.

Nobody in the area reported knowing the child or who she may belong to. Detectives were called to the scene and Alexandria Child Protective Services (CPS) was notified.

APD said possible video of the vehicle used to abandon the child has been found and police are working to identify it and its owner.

According to the release:

City of Alexandria officials are reminding the public to report suspicions of child abuse or neglect. Residents may call the City of Alexandria Child Protective Services (CPS) at 703 746 5800 24 hours a day or the Virginia hotline at 1 800 552 7096. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911. Callers have the option of remaining anonymous.

About the Author

  • Vernon Miles is the ALXnow cofounder and editor. He's covered Alexandria since 2014 and has been with Local News Now since 2018. When he's not reporting, he can usually be found playing video games or Dungeons and Dragons with friends.