Watch CBS News

NH Police Find Baby In Vehicle, Now Searching For Missing Mom

CONWAY, N.H. (CBS/AP) - A Maine woman whose car and infant daughter were abandoned in a New Hampshire parking lot appears to be the victim of a crime, police said Sunday.

Local and state police are investigating leads and preparing evidence for analysis after 20-year-old Krista Dittmeyer's car was found with its engine running and hazard lights flashing in the Cranmore Mountain ski area parking lot in Conway, said Lt. Chris Perley. But there is nothing to indicate that Dittmeyer left behind her car and child, who was found in the car, by choice.

WBZ-TV's Jim Smith reports.

"There is nothing we've uncovered to indicate that she voluntarily absented herself from the vehicle or the child," Perley said. "People have asked about suicide or mental illness, but there's nothing to indicate either of those things."

Police got a call at 6:30 a.m. Saturday from someone who spotted the car. The baby is in good condition and has been turned over to family members.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe reports.

Podcast

Police said Dittmeyer, who lives and works in Portland and has ties to Bridgton, Maine, last talked to family members at about 8 p.m. Friday by phone.

Family friend Kathy Pratt said the incident is uncharacteristic of Dittmeyer, who she described as a caring, responsible mother.

"Knowing Krista is that she would never, ever, ever leave that baby in that car by herself, never. Krista is such a devoted mother," said Pratt. "Whatever happened, it would not be voluntary on her part."

Her mom said that Dittmeyer frequently visits her family and friends in Conway.

WBZ-TV's Alana Gomez contributed to this report.

(TM and © Copyright 2010 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.