Fetus found in dumpster behind Hawthorne strip mall

HAWTHORNE, Calif. (FOX 11 / CNS) - Police today investigated the death of a fetus found next to a dumpster in Hawthorne this morning, authorities said.

The fetus was found behind the Coast Laundry at 5041 W. El Segundo Blvd., Hawthorne police Lt. Jim Royer told City News Service.

"About 7 a.m. we received a call about a suspicious item that was found next to a dumpster behind the Coast Laundry,'' Royer said. "Our officers responded and believed they had found a fetus,'' Royer continued. "Our Special Victims unit was notified and they went to the scene.

They determined it was a fetus believed to be between 15 and 18 weeks old. We then notified the coroner and are awaiting their arrival at the location.''

Royer also said authorities did not immediately determine if the fetus was male or female.

No other information was immediately available.