Earthquake Strikes North Carolina and Police Uncover Fetus in Pennsylvania

MARSHVILLE, N.C. (AP) — An earthquake measuring 2.0 in magnitude struck North Carolina early Friday morning, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The tremor occurred at approximately 1:02 a.m. and was recorded at a depth of one kilometer.

The epicenter of the earthquake was located 3.5 miles south-southwest of Marshville, 9.7 miles east-southeast of Monroe, and 74.5 miles north-northeast of Columbia, South Carolina. Residents in the affected areas reported feeling the shake, although no significant damage has been reported.

The USGS noted that earthquakes of this magnitude are relatively common in the region but typically do not cause serious harm. Local officials are monitoring the situation but have indicated that at this time there is no cause for alarm.

EAST DONEGAL, Pa. (AP) — In a separate and disturbing incident, police in Pennsylvania discovered a fetus buried in a backyard last week. The Susquehanna Regional Police department acted on a search warrant that led them to the home after speaking with a witness who provided key information about the disturbing situation.

According to a police affidavit, the witness claimed the incident began in April 2024 when the suspect learned she was pregnant. Following advice that she was too far along for a clinical abortion, the suspect allegedly sought medication from the internet for an at-home abortion.

The witness provided police with documented communications, including texts from the suspect discussing the “birth” and containing images. Reports indicated that the suspect described keeping the fetus in a “little box” and stated, “We kept the baby in a little box so we can bury it.”

Further details included the mother’s comments regarding the fetus, noting it had “fingernails and lips and a nose.” In additional texts, she revealed that the fetus had been stored in a container under her bed for several weeks before being buried.

The coroner’s office concluded that the cause of death was extreme prematurity prior to viability.

As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with this tragic case, and police are actively continuing their investigation.