Bristol murder probe: Woman arrested after three children found dead

Police officers outside the property in the Sea Mills area on Monday morning. Credit: PA

A woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder after three children were found dead at a property in Bristol.

Officers from Avon and Somerset Police attended a concern for welfare call in Blaise Walk, Sea Mills, on Sunday 18 February at around 12.40am.

Three children found inside the property are believed to be a ten-month-old baby, a seven-year-old boy and a three-year-old girl. They all died at the scene.

The 42-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of murder is in police custody at hospital, Avon and Somerset Police say.

Police forensic tent at the scene in Blaise Walk, in Sea Mills, Bristol Credit: Ben Birchall/PA

Neighbourhood Chief Inspector of Avon and Somerset Police, Vicks Hayward-Melen, said: “This is an incredibly tragic and heartbreaking incident in which three children have sadly died.

“My sincere condolences go to the children’s loved ones and we will be ensuring they are offered support through our family liaison unit.

“We believe this to be an isolated incident and there is no further risk to the wider community, however officers will remain at the scene to provide reassurance to anyone who has any questions or concerns.

“Over the coming days, residents can expect to see an increased police presence and we thank them for their cooperation during this time.

“As is usual in these circumstances, we have notified the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), due to prior police contact.

“The death of such young children is a great shock to the whole community and this incident has had a profound and deep impact on all of us in the police.

“We’ll be making sure all those involved in the response and the subsequent investigation are given any welfare support they may need.

“I know people will be eager to have answers, but the major crime investigation team are in the very early stages of what will be a highly sensitive, complex and thorough investigation, and it will take time to establish all the facts.

“We anticipate we’ll need to carry out further inquiries at the scene for the rest of the week and there will be some cordons in place while we do this.”

Bristol's Mayor Marvin Rees described the incident as 'devastating'.

He said; "It's almost impossible to find the words to describe this afternoon's devastating news from Sea Mills, Bristol."My thoughts are with all who knew these three young children – we will be working with schools, the community, and Avon and Somerset Police to support people."

People who believe they have information which could help the investigation have been asked to call 101 quoting reference 5224042788 or visit the force’s website.