Woman arrested on suspicion of murder of eight babies
A female healthcare worker has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of eight babies and the attempted murder of another six after an investigation of the neonatal unit at the Countess of Chester Hospital.
The arrest comes as part of a long-running investigation following a high number of baby deaths at the hospital.
Detectives launched an investigation in May last year, initially looking at the deaths of 15 babies between June 2015 and June 2016.
On Tuesday police said they had made an arrest and the probe had widened. Detectives said they are now looking into the deaths of 17 babies and 15 non-fatal collapses between March 2015 and July 2016.
It is not clear if the arrested woman is a nurse, doctor or other health professional.
Officers have confirmed that they are searching a property in Westbourne Road, Chester, in connection with the investigation.
A blue police tent has been put up in the front garden of the neat semi-detached house, with forensics vans and other police vehicles stationed outside as officers come and go from the property.
Detective Inspector Paul Hughes, in charge of the investigation for Cheshire Police, said:
Medical director Ian Harvey said:
The hospital appeared as busy as ever on Tuesday with dozens of patients, staff and visitors coming and going from the vast site in Chester.
However security guards were on patrol and stationed near hospital entrances as a growing media pack arrived close to the main entrance.
Hospital officials said they will not be making any further statements.
If anyone has any information that they want to pass onto the investigation team they are encouraged to get in touch via the Operation Hummingbird mailbox at operation.hummingbird@cheshire.pnn.police.uk
Information can also be passed on anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 11 or by calling 101.