The boy is 6 to 9 months old and police did not say what the officer's relationship with the boy is. He was found buckled into a car seat by a woman who says she was out walking and heard the child's cries near a dumpster behind some apartments in the 3700-block of 214th Street not far from the Old Plank Trail walking path at about 10 p.m., police said.
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Authorities said the child was treated for a slight fever and remains in the custody of the Department of Child Family Services. Police said Friday afternoon they believe they have identified the child and multiple family members.
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Authorities haven't said how they were able to identify the child and multiple family members. Sources close to the investigation said the baby's mother had dropped off the child to his father and had no idea what had happened.
"You never know what people's situation is, so it's just heartbreaking to hear something like that," said neighborhood resident Isaiah Mitchell.
From the start, police said it was obvious the baby had been well cared for. He appeared to be in good health, but had a soiled diaper and wet socks. The baby also had a blanket, toys and baby food along with diapers and wipes.
Police asked for the public's help in finding the child's parents after a canvass of the neighborhood yielded no leads. As authorities search for more answers, most are just glad the baby is ok.
"I think it would take some extreme problems and sense of desperation for someone to leave a baby there like that so I'll just have to keep them in my thoughts," said neighborhood resident Seth Whitson.
Anyone with information is asked to call Matteson police at (708)748-5931.