Burnley baby death: police launch murder investigation

Wellington Court in Burnley Credit: ITV

Two people are under arrest and a murder investigation has been launched after the death of a newborn baby.

A 30-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman were initially arrested after police were called shortly before 3pm on Monday to reports of a sudden death at an address in Wellington Court in Burnley, Lancashire.

The body of a newborn baby girl was found at the property.

The pair were held on suspicion of the concealment of the birth of a child but then released without charge.

Following an initial post-mortem examination, the baby was found to have a number of injuries which require further examination.

Both suspects were re-arrested on suspicion of murder and are now in custody for questioning by detectives.

Detective Chief Inspector Jill Johnston, of Lancashire Police, said:

  • Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log reference 0703 of January 16.

  • Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.