Hawaii island police said they took a homeless woman into custody after she gave birth to a baby girl on a downtown Hilo sidewalk, then allegedly abandoned it on Tuesday evening.

Police said shortly after 5:15 p.m., patrol officers responded to reports of a woman giving birth at the intersection of Mamo and Keawe streets, then allegedly dragging the newborn on the sidewalk.

Responding paramedics found the baby still attached to the 41-year-old woman by the umbilical cord. They cut the cord and tended to the newborn, who was breathing but not moving, according to a police report.

The infant was taken to the Hilo Medical Center emergency room, where doctors determined her to be in good condition.

The mother reportedly left the area after separation from her baby, but was quickly located by officers, police said.

Police took her into custody for suspicion of abandonment of a child, but also took her to Hilo Medical Center for treatment and observation.

Police have since released the mother, who they described as homeless, from custody pending investigation. Police said appropriate charges would be routed to the county Office of the Prosecuting Attorney.

Witnesses to the incident are asked to contact HPD Detective Patrick Aurello of the Area I Juvenile Aid Section at 808-961-8810 or patrick.aurello@hawaiicounty.gov.