The FBI has announced a reward of up to $15,000 for information that leads to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the person or people responsible for the death of a newborn infant found at Michigan's Electric Forest music festival.
On Monday, the FBI's Detroit Field Office said it is assisting the Michigan State Police (MSP) in the investigation after the infant's body was discovered on June 28 inside a portable restroom in the festival's camping area in Rothbury.
In a statement, the MSP said the reward is intended to help investigators identify those responsible as authorities continue working to determine the circumstances surrounding the infant's death.
“To assist investigators in identifying and apprehending those responsible, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is offering a reward of up to $15,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible,” the agency said.
"The MSP remains committed to a thorough investigation of this incident," the agency continued. "We are confident that continued investigative efforts, combined with forensic science, will ultimately lead to the identification of the person responsible."
State police also acknowledged widespread public speculation about the case, saying investigators are withholding many details to preserve the integrity of the investigation.
“There has been much speculation regarding the circumstances surrounding this incident. To protect the integrity of the investigation, we are unable to discuss many aspects of the evidence at this time,” the statement reads.
However, officials confirmed one key finding from the preliminary autopsy.
"The MSP can confirm that preliminary autopsy findings indicate the infant was viable and was born alive," the agency said.
The investigation began after an employee with the portable restroom servicing company found the newborn's body while performing routine maintenance during the annual music festival. Authorities said at the time that there was no known threat to the public.
Investigators have released few additional details since then, emphasizing that the case remains active.
MSP said investigators believe some people may have information relevant to the case but have not yet come forward.
"Investigators believe there are individuals with important information relevant to this case who may be reluctant to come forward," the agency said.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Michigan State Police by submitting a tip through the MichTip system or by calling 1-855-MICH-TIP (1-855-642-4847). The FBI said tips may also be submitted to a local FBI office or through its online tip portal.