Investigations Continue After Historic Remains Of A Baby Found

Friday, 13 May 2016 14:21

Police are continuing enquires after historic human remains were found in woodlands near Wakefield last week.

The Homicide and Major Enquiry Team (Hmet) are continuing enquiries into the discovery of a number of small bones in a plastic bag, just off a towpath leading from Welbeck Lane at the Washlands Nature Reserve last week.

Forensic analysis over the past week suggests the remains were those of a full term new-born born baby.

It is uncertain exactly how long ago the bones may have been in the location, but it is believed they could have been there for a considerable amount of time.

The bones were discovered by a member of the public on Sunday May 1 but this was not reported to police until the following Tuesday.

Officers attended and a forensic recovery of the bones took place, involving scientists and Crime Scene Investigators.

DCI Nicola Bryar, who is leading the enquiry, said: "Investigations have been ongoing since last week into the discovery of a number of small bones, in woodland near the Southern Washlands Fishing Lake, off Welbeck Lane.

"Forensic examinations have determined the bones were those of a full term new born baby, and may have been there for a considerable amount of time.

"We are mindful that the mother of that child will have been through a traumatic ordeal and while there is no immediacy for any need for medical treatment, I am sure that some form of emotional support will be needed.

"We are continuing our enquiries and I would ask anyone who has any information at all to contact us."

Anyone who does have information is asked to contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team on 101 referencing police log number 364 of May 3, 2016.

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