Body of newborn boy found in Hampshire woodland as police search for mother
Police are trying to trace the mother of the child, who was discovered in Hythe, near Southampton, on Thursday afternoon.
Friday 6 March 2020 06:44, UK
A newborn baby boy has been found dead in an area of woodland in Hampshire.
Police are trying to trace the mother of the child, who was discovered close to Shore Road in Hythe, near Southampton, just after 2pm on Thursday.
Detective Chief Inspector Ross Toms said: "I have no doubt this will have been a very distressing experience for the mother of this baby.
"Our priority right now is to ensure she receives the care and assistance she requires.
"I want to make a direct appeal to her.
"You may be very frightened right now and it is vitally important that you make contact with us or someone else.
"You may not want to contact the police and I understand that.
"If that is the case, I want to urge you to seek assistance from a healthcare professional or to attend a hospital as soon as possible."
The baby's death is being treated as unexplained.
Anyone with information should call 101, quoting either Operation Verse or the reference 44200084127 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.