Police have launched a homicide investigation after discovering the body of a newborn baby in a wheelie bin outside a home.
Emergency services were called to a home on Renall Street in Freeman’s Bay, Auckland on New Zealand’s North Island about 10pm on Tuesday.
Auckland City Police Detective Inspector Scott Beard said a woman had been taken into custody to assist police with their investigations.
‘Sadly, I can confirm the deceased is a newborn baby, and they were discovered in a wheelie bin outside an address,’ Mr Beard said.
‘A woman is in custody and police are speaking with her to establish the circumstances around what has occurred.’
He added police were not looking for anyone else in connection with the discovery.
The street remained cordoned-off on Wednesday as police continued to sweep the surrounding area for evidence and CCTV footage.
‘This is a tragedy for everyone concerned and there is a person’s wellbeing to consider here alongside the investigation, so we will ensure the woman gets the support she needs,’ Mr Beard said.
Emergency services were called to an address on Renall Street in Freeman’s Bay, Auckland, about 10pm on Tuesday
A woman has been taken into custody and is assisting police with investigations (stock)
‘Police acknowledge this will understandably be quite confronting information for the community to grapple with.’
Mr Beard said a post-mortem was ongoing on Wednesday to guide the next steps in the investigation before asking the public to avoid speculation.
‘The result is not yet known, and police will provide further updates as the investigation allows.
‘We would ask the public to avoid speculation given what has occurred and allow investigators to carry out their work.’
Mr Beard added there would be increased police presence in the area as investigations continue.
‘Members of the public can be assured there is no risk to public safety.
If you have any information that could assist the investigation, please make a report via 105, using the file number 250630/9878 and quote ‘Operation Yarrow’.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-nz.org.
