Crime

Remains of newborn found in trash bag behind home; 2 arrested

/ CBS/AP

WORCESTER, Mass. -- Authorities in Massachusetts say two people are charged with concealing the death of a newborn whose remains were discovered in a garbage bag in the woods behind a home.

Police say officers found the bag containing the body on Monday in Worcester after talking to a man who reported an unusual odor.

Police say officers saw 31-year-old Edwin Santiago and 36-year-old Jennifer Rheume walking on the railroad tracks behind Santiago's residence. Rheaume is described as Santiago's girlfriend and authorities say she apparently frequents the house, as well as another nearby home, reports CBS Boston.

The two were arrested and charged with walking on railroad tracks.

Police say that after further investigation, the two were also charged with removal of a human body and concealment of the death of a child. It couldn't be determined Monday whether they have attorneys.

Authorities believe Rheaume is the one who gave birth to the child and then put the child in the trash bag, reports CBS Boston. Police say it's unknown whether the baby was alive at the time of delivery.

First published on June 20, 2017 / 12:03 PM EDT

© 2017 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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