A somber 10-year anniversary came and went without much notice recently. But the date was recognized by Platte County Prosecutor Eric Zahnd and it reminds him of an unsolved case that has troubled him over the years. Ten years ago on April 26, electric line workers found a dead newborn found along a road in Kansas City, and authorities are again asking for help in solving the case. “Precious Joe,” as the baby has been called, was found near Tiffany Springs Road and North Hull. For years, a small cross marked the spot where the baby was found. Even that cross has now disappeared, a reflection of the case fading away with time. Last week, Zahnd said his office is renewing its efforts to solve the mystery of Precious Joe. “April 26 marks a solemn anniversary for everyone in Kansas City,” Platte County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Zahnd said. “Somebody, somewhere knows what happened to this little boy, and we need that person to step forward so he can rest in peace. Precious Joe was a white male newborn. His body was found by Kansas City Power and Light employees along an undeveloped road in Platte County. The area now is being developed for residential housing. The baby was lying under a Wal-Mart bag. Police also found a hoop earring near the child’s body. “It would compound this tragedy if we silently allowed Precious Joe to slip from memory,” Zahnd said. “I went to the scene and was at his autopsy a decade ago, and it’s something I’ll never forget. But we need somebody to help us put this baby peacefully to rest.” The case remains under investigation by the Kansas City Police Department’s Cold Case Squad, and anyone with information can call the TIPS Hotline. The TIPS Hotline number is (816) 474-TIPS. Callers can remain anonymous, and a reward is available for information that leads to the identity of Precious Joe.

The Platte County Citizen