Police reopen crime scene where baby's remains were discovered

Police officers have returned to make "further enquiries" at a house where the remains of a baby were found over two weeks ago.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police confirmed that officers had reopened the crime scene on Marsh Green, Wigan yesterday, Friday, April 26. It comes as further enquiries need to be completed at the sight. Officers were initially called to the address on Wednesday, April 10 after a partner agency reported a concern for welfare.

Police discovered the remains of a baby two days later. The force said the incident is still being treated as isolated and there was no wider threat to the community. A spokesperson added: "Our investigation has seen many force resources come together to understand the circumstances of how these remains came to be here.

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"We’d like to reassure people that reopening scenes are often standard procedure, particularly during complex investigations. Officers and forensic experts are simply there conducting further enquiries as our investigation continues."

The baby's gender and cause of death are yet to be confirmed. Five people, aged between 20 and 70, were arrested on suspicion of concealing a death and unlawful burial. They all remain on police bail at this time.

Detective Chief Inspector John Davies, who is leading the investigation for GMP, said: "This continues to be an upsetting incident and unlike anything I have come across during my policing career so far. Officers and forensic experts are back today at Marsh Green and could be there for some time.

"This is to conduct further enquiries which will ultimately assist my investigation and I hope to get us closer to finding out the full circumstances. I want to be clear, as to dispel any speculation, we do not believe there are remains belonging to any other parties at this property.

"It is being treated as an isolated incident. I understand that seeing officers back at this property may cause concern, and anyone who feels that way is welcome to speak to those at the scene. You will be listened to, and I hope reassured that this is just about us being as thorough as possible.

"Me and my team are determined to get to the bottom of what has happened here, but as processes and enquiries are still ongoing, we are continuing to keep an open mind."

Anyone with any information which they believe could assist GMP's enquiries is asked to call 101, quoting log 1609 of April 10, 2024. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.