Police on Friday said they had closed an investigation into fetal remains discovered at a wastewater treatment plant in Asan, South Chungcheong Province, after an autopsy confirmed the fetus had died before birth and found no evidence of a crime.
The remains were found at the plant on Sept. 28, according to Asan Police Station. The fetus was estimated to be around 16 weeks into gestation, measuring about 20 centimeters long and weighing just 110 grams. Authorities identified the mother through DNA testing.
The woman told investigators she had gone to the toilet with abdominal pain, thinking she needed a bowel movement. She said she flushed without realizing she miscarried.
Police believe the remains reached the plant through the sewage system. The facility treats wastewater from businesses and dormitories in a nearby industrial complex and residential areas in the Tangjeong district of Asan.
An autopsy by the National Forensic Service also found that the fetus had died before birth.
junheee@heraldcorp.com
