A woman is in police custody facing multiple charges after a newborn baby was found in a South Columbus dumpster. 22-year-old Zinnia Hernandez was arrested Thursday according to jail records. Hernandez is charged with reckless conduct, abandonment of dependent child, cruelty to children- 1st degree and criminal attempt to commit a felony-murder.
The newborn baby boy was discovered September 2, 2025 at 6:30 pm in a dumpster at the Budgetel hotel on Victory Drive. He was taken to Piedmont Midtown for treatment and remains in good condition.
Georgia law provides a safe, legal way for a newborn up to 30 days old to be surrendered safely and anonymously. Under the Safe Place for Newborns Act, a parent may leave their baby with staff at a hospital, police station or fire station-no identification required and no criminal charges.
