City police have confirmed they were called to a Preston Street address Thursday morning after a passerby found a human fetus.“There are concerns for the mother’s health and well being,” police said. “We are urging her to come forward and seek medical attention.”Police were called at 7:08 a.m. for what they initially described as a “suspicious incident.” The sidewalk in front of Moderno Barbershop was cordoned off and a piece of cardboard was placed overtop of the area where the fetus appears to have been discovered. One officer remained on scene monitoring the area throughout the late morning and early afternoon, while an investigator asked for details from nearby residents and business owners. Moderno Barbershop owner Domenico Votano said the news shocked him, adding Little Italy is often a quiet neighbourhood. Votano said he noticed a large number of emergency vehicles passing by as he was heading to his business around 7:30 a.m. “This morning I got up and I went to the usual places to have my coffee and I saw police cars and ambulances, not knowing that they were coming here,” he said. “Then I came down here and saw everything was cordoned off.” Votano said his business was closed as a result of the police investigation and he is unsure of when he will be able to reopen. However he said he is concerned for the mother’s well-being.Ottawa paramedics are also concerned, tweeting, “We want to reinforced the importance of getting medical attention for the mother due to the significant risk of infection and bleeding.”Anyone with information is asked to call 613-236-1222 ext. 5944.
A fetus was found in front of a store on Preston Street on Friday, July 25, 2019.
Jean Levac /
Postmedia News
A fetus was found in front of a store on Preston Street on Friday, July 25, 2019.
Jean Levac /
Postmedia News
A fetus was found in front of a store on Preston Street on Friday, July 25, 2019.
Jean Levac /
Postmedia News