Summary (tl;dr)

An investigation is underway after the body of a newborn baby, defined as a neonate, was discovered in a portable restroom at the Electric Forest music festival in Rothbury, Michigan.

Essential Background

Electric Forest is a prominent multi-day electronic music and jam band festival held annually at the Double JJ Resort in Rothbury, Michigan, typically in late June. Launched in 2011, it is known for its immersive art installations, diverse musical lineup, and vibrant community spirit within a woodland setting. The 2026 festival is the 14th iteration of the event, which runs from June 25th to June 28th, attracting tens of thousands of attendees.

The Full Story

On Sunday morning, June 28, 2026, an employee performing routine maintenance discovered the body of a newborn baby, identified by Michigan State Police (MSP) as a "neonate" (an infant four weeks old or younger), in a porta-potty located in the camping area of the Electric Forest festival. The Michigan State Police have launched an investigation into the incident and are actively seeking information from the public. Authorities have stated there is no known threat to the public, but encourage anyone who observed unusual activity or possesses relevant information to come forward.

Why It Matters

The tragic discovery of a deceased neonate at the Electric Forest festival has sparked a police investigation and raised significant concern within the festival community and beyond. This incident highlights a profound human tragedy amidst a large-scale public event, prompting questions and calls for information to help understand the circumstances surrounding the newborn's death. Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance, underscoring the seriousness of the ongoing inquiry.

Geographic Location

• Double JJ Resort, Rothbury, Oceana County, Michigan, United States (discovery of deceased neonate at Electric Forest festival)