Murder Arrests Over Baby’s Death in Staffordshire Woodland
Four people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a baby was found dead while camping with her family in Staffordshire.
A three-month-old baby girl died after emergency services were called to reports of a child in cardiac arrest in woodland near Cheslyn Hay, Staffordshire at 08:45 BST on Saturday.
The people arrested include:
- A 42-year-old man and 30-year-old woman from south Staffordshire
- A 20-year-old woman from Wolverhampton
- An 18-year-old man from Walsall
All four were detained at the scene and have since been bailed while inquiries continue, Staffordshire Police said.
Det Insp Josh Lee stated that officers are working to gather further evidence around the circumstances of the girl’s death and are "keeping an open mind." He stressed that it is being treated as an isolated incident and urged people to avoid sharing "unconfirmed and speculative" claims online.
Police have been in the area making inquiries and providing reassurance to the community. The scene, described as "hidden away" in the Wyrley and Essington Branch Canal Local Nature Reserve, is not an official camping site but is popular with locals for fishing and walking. A cordon remained in place around the scene where two tents had been pitched near a fishing lake.
Residents of Cheslyn Hay, a town of approximately 7,000 people, were said to be shocked by the child’s death. Councillor Robert Duncan urged residents to "avoid speculation" and allow the family and responders privacy and respect.
The superintendent of the Cannock Chase Methodist Church Circuit, Rev Samantha Hagerman, expressed condolences, stating, "Our thoughts and prayers are with family, friends, and emergency services affected by the incident near Cheslyn Hay yesterday."
Sir Gavin Williamson, MP for Stone, Great Wyrley, and Penkridge, described it as "extremely distressing news" that has caused concern in the area. He also appealed for people to avoid speculating about the incident and allow police to complete their investigations.
