Four people have been arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of a three-month-old baby girl who was camping with her family in woodland in Staffordshire, United Kingdom.
Emergency services were called to woodland off Strawberry Lane, near Cheslyn Hay, at about 08:45 BST on Saturday after receiving reports that a child was in cardiac arrest.
The baby was found at the site and later confirmed dead.
Staffordshire Police said those arrested were a 42-year-old man and a 30-year-old woman from South Staffordshire, a 20-year-old woman from Wolverhampton and an 18-year-old man from Walsall.
All four were detained at the scene and have since been released on bail as investigations continue.
Detective Inspector Josh Lee said officers were working to establish the circumstances surrounding the girl’s death and had not ruled anything out.
He said the force was “keeping an open mind” as it continued to gather evidence.
Police described the incident as isolated and appealed to members of the public not to spread “unconfirmed and speculative” claims online.
The woodland area forms part of the Wyrley and Essington Branch Canal Local Nature Reserve.
The location where the tragedy occurred was described as a secluded area away from the main woodland.
Although the site is not an authorised camping ground, locals said people frequently visit the area to fish at two nearby pools.
The nature trail is also used by dog walkers and runners.
Police officers remained in the area over the weekend as they carried out inquiries and sought to reassure residents. A bunch of roses was also left close to the scene in memory of the baby.
A police cordon was placed around the area near a fishing lake, where two tents had reportedly been pitched.
Residents in Cheslyn Hay, a community of about 7,000 people, expressed shock following the child’s death.
Councillor Robert Duncan of South Staffordshire Council said the community was devastated and urged residents to “avoid speculation”.
He added that people should “allow the family and responders the privacy and respect they deserve”.
Rev Samantha Hagerman, superintendent of the Cannock Chase Methodist Church Circuit, said, “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 the incident as “extremely distressing news” and said it had caused considerable concern in the area.
He also urged people not to speculate while police continue their investigation.
“I am extremely grateful to the emergency services and my thoughts are with the child’s family at this incredibly upsetting time,” he said on Facebook.
Police have appealed for anyone with relevant information to come forward as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the baby’s death continue.
