Brantford Police Make Arrest in Baby Parker Investigation

February 26, 2026

05-26062

The Brantford Police Service have arrested and charged a 39-year-old woman in connection with the Baby Parker investigation.

On July 28, 2005, Brantford police responded to the area of the walking trails near Dufferin Avenue and Parkside Drive after a citizen discovered the deceased body of a full-term, newborn baby boy. The death of the infant became the subject of an extensive and ongoing police investigation. As the identity of the child was unknown, officers named him Baby Parker. Until now, neither the child’s mother nor father had been identified.

With the assistance of the Toronto Police Service, and through the utilization of new DNA technologies and advanced investigative techniques, detectives were able to further the investigation and identify the person believed to be the mother of Baby Parker.

As a result of the investigation, on February 26, 2026, a 39-year-old woman from Brantford (at the time of the incident) has been charged with:

• Indignity to a body
• Concealing the body of a child

Given the sensitive nature of this investigation, and in consideration of privacy interests and the ongoing judicial process, the name of the accused will not be released at this time. Police are not seeking additional suspects, and there is no ongoing risk to public safety.

Police have no evidence to suggest that anyone else was involved during the birth of Baby Parker or in the events that followed. Investigators are not seeking any additional suspects and, at this time, do not anticipate that any further charges will be laid.

Throughout the course of the twenty-year investigation, the Brantford Police Service worked closely with partner agencies. The Ontario Provincial Police previously assisted with statement analysis through its Behavioral Sciences Section and developed a potential profile of the child’s mother. Information released to the public at that time indicated that it was likely that the mother may have been between 13 and 17 years of age, had a connection to the Holmedale neighbourhood, and may have concealed the pregnancy from those close to her.

Shortly after the discovery in 2005, the Brantford Police Service released segments of a letter received by the Service that was believed to have been written by the mother of the child. Samples of the handwriting were shared publicly in the hope that someone would recognize and identify the writer. In the letter, the author indicated they would be in contact with police in the coming days; however, no such individual ever came forward. While a number of tips were received following the release of the handwriting samples, the information did not result in any conclusive investigative leads. At present, police have no evidence to confirm the identity of the letter’s author.

From the outset, the Brantford Police Service remained steadfast in its commitment to identifying the child’s mother and/or father. Over the years, investigators renewed public appeals for information in the hope that members of the community could assist in advancing the case.

This investigation has had a profound impact not only on the community, but also on the officers involved. The compassionate decision by an officer to provide a name for this previously unidentified child reflects the deeply personal and emotional nature of the case for those who worked tirelessly to seek answers. On August 17, 2025, the community marked the 20-year anniversary of the memorial service and the date on which Baby Parker was laid to rest, a solemn reminder of the lasting impact of this case.

The Brantford Police Service is grateful for the continued support of the community and for the information that has been provided throughout the course of this investigation. In the years following the discovery, members of the public also came together to honour Baby Parker’s memory through “Parker’s Project,” a grassroots initiative reflecting the compassion and care of the Brantford community.

“On behalf of the Investigative Support Branch, I extend my sincere appreciation to all members, both past and present, sworn and civilian, whose unwavering dedication and professionalism were essential in advancing the Baby Parker investigation. Their commitment was pivotal in bringing resolution to the case, which has profoundly impacted our community and our police service. Their collective determination to seek closure for Baby Parker has led us to this important milestone.” Inspector i/c Investigative Support Keith Tollar.

To protect the integrity of the investigation, and as the matter is now before the courts, the Brantford Police Service will not be providing further comment regarding investigative techniques or evidentiary details.

The Brantford Police Service acknowledges the dedication of investigators and the assistance of partner agencies in advancing this investigation.

Additionally, the Brantford Police Service recognizes that this case may be distressing for some members of the community, particularly those who have experienced pregnancy loss, trauma, or other personal challenges. Confidential support and health resources are available for youth and families in our community. Individuals seeking assistance are encouraged to connect with their healthcare provider, local public health unit, or community-based counselling services for guidance and support. Anyone experiencing emotional distress may also contact a local crisis support line for immediate assistance. No one should feel they must navigate difficult circumstances alone.

Public Safety in Partnership with the Community