Father of dead newborn found by road identified

The Mifflin County Coroner’s Office has identified the biological father of the newborn formerly known as Baby Girl Kauffman.

The father, Anthony L. Norris, has been identified through DNA testing. Betty Lee Norris is now the baby’s name and identity.

Jordyn Lynn Kauffman, 20, of McVeytown, informed Norris in December 2025 that her pregnancy had ended. He subsequently lost contact with her and was unaware that the pregnancy had progressed and that he had a daughter.

On May 15, at about 6 p.m., the Mifflin County Coroner’s Office was called to the terrible finding of a deceased newborn face down besides an embankment on Mt Hope Road in McVeytown.

Investigators determined that the newborn was left alive on the embankment on May 14 before Kauffman arrived at work in the Mount Union neighbourhood. She was then brought home for medical evaluation at Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital due to considerable blood loss.

Kauffman was arrested and denied bail after being charged with homicide.

Norris voluntarily submitted a DNA sample throughout the investigation, confirming his paternity and establishing Betty’s identity. We appreciate Mr Norris’ willingness to assist our office with this issue. “The Mifflin County Coroner’s Office extends its heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to Mr Norris and Betty’s family as they mourn this tragic loss,” according to a coroner’s office release.

Kauffman faces charges of homicide, aggravated assault, abuse of a corpse, endangering the welfare of children, and hiding a child’s death. Her preliminary hearing is now scheduled for June 26.