Woman detained under Mental Health Act following the death of a child in Limeside

An investigation is underway

An investigation is underway following the death of a child in Oldham.

Police were called by the ambulance service on New Year's Eve at around 6.20pm after responding to an incident on Elm Road in Limeside.

A child was pronounced dead at the scene.

An investigation is currently underway into the circumstances surrounding the death.

A woman in her 30s has been detained under the Mental Health Act.

The incident has been referred to the police Professional Standards Branch and to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, due to "previous police contact".

Detective Superintendent Chris Packer said: "Our thoughts are with the child's loved ones at this heart-breaking time. Specialist officers will offer them support.

"Our investigation is in the early stages and we'd ask anyone with information to contact us or Crimestoppers immediately.

"Due to previous police contact, this incident has been referred to our Professional Standards Branch and will be referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

"This sad news is bound to cause distress in the community but I would like to offer reassurance that we are doing everything we can to establish the circumstances."

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 3656 quoting 2284 31/12/21. Alternatively, the independent charity - Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.