UPDATED: Pair arrested over Heywood baby death bailed
Date published: 26 July 2018
Picture courtesy of Google Street View
A 48-year old man and a 33-year old woman, arrested in connection with the death of a newborn baby found in woodland in Heywood, have been bailed pending further enquiries.
They were arrested on suspicion of murder, concealing a birth and preventing a lawful burial.
The baby - named Pearl by officers - was found by a dog walker near to the river Roch in April.
Extensive DNA tests have been taking place over the past months to work out what happened to her.
The man and woman are believed to be the baby's parents.
At around 7.10am on Wednesday, April 4, 2018, police were alerted to the body of a baby in woodland off Peel Lane in Heywood, near to the old rubbish tip site.
An investigation into the circumstances was immediately launched and forensic examinations determined the baby was born with a congenital defect that resulted in her missing two ribs.
Detective Superintendent Lewis Hughes, who headed up the Major Incident Team investigation, said: "This continues to be an incredibly heart-breaking case for everyone involved - from the detectives working painstaking hours to find those responsible to members of the public that have felt the loss of Pearl.
"I would continue to urge anyone with even the smallest piece of information - no matter how insignificant it may seem - to please get in touch.
"We're committed to finding the truth for this little girl and truly believe the public could hold the key to this tragic case."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4810 or 07387 705 768 quoting incident number 368 of 04/04/18.
Reports can also be made anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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