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“Baby Madison” case update: New facial reconstruction, details released for girl found in suitcase along I-45

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) created a new facial reconstruction image (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office and FBI have unveiled a new facial reconstruction image in the ongoing investigation of a 2016 cold case involving an unidentified child known as “Baby Madison.”

The remains of the little girl were discovered on September 17, 2016, wrapped in a white trash bag and placed inside a black suitcase off Interstate 45 near Madison, Texas.

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Forensic analysis determined the child was between two and five years old at the time of her death.

She was found wearing a size 4T pink long-sleeve dress from the brand “Mon Petit,” decorated with butterflies and the words “Follow Your Dreams,” along with a size 4 diaper.

Notably, “Baby Madison” had a feeding tube, indicating she likely required specialized medical care.

Initially, it was believed the child had a medical condition called micrognathia, which causes an abnormally small lower jaw. However, updated forensic assessments have ruled out this condition.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) created a new facial reconstruction image based on these findings, which investigators hope will lead to her identification.

Genetic testing suggests the child may have ancestral ties to El Salvador or Nuevo Leon, Mexico.

BACKGROUND: First sketches released of girl found dead in suitcase along I-45 north near Madisonville

She was described as having long, thick black hair.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the identity of “Baby Madison” to come forward.

Anyone with details is asked to contact the Madison County Sheriff’s Office at (936) 348-2755 ext. 322 or the FBI Bryan Resident Agency.


About the Authors
Holly Galvan Posey headshot

Holly joined the KPRC 2 digital team in March 2024, leveraging her eight years of expertise in blogging and digital content to share her passion for Houston. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring the city's vibrant scenes, all while balancing her roles as a wife and mother to two toddlers.

Corley Peel headshot

Corley Peel is a Texas native and Texas Tech graduate who covered big stories in Joplin, Missouri, Tulsa, Oklahoma and Jacksonville, Florida before returning to the Lone Star State. When not reporting, Corley enjoys hot yoga, Tech Football, and finding the best tacos in town.

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