In a heartbreaking development, a mother has been charged with the murder of her five-month-old daughter, following the discovery of the baby in a Leeds park amidst winter conditions.
Key Details:
- Charged Individual: Hayley Macfarlane, 39, of Barnsley, faces charges for the murder of her daughter, Evelyn.
- Incident Location: The tragic incident occurred in Woodhouse Moor park, also known as Hyde Park, in Leeds.
- Court Appearance: Macfarlane is scheduled to appear at Leeds Magistrates Court on Saturday.
Incident Overview:
- Police Report: Around 5.45 pm on Wednesday, police received a report concerning a baby in a serious condition at Woodhouse Moor.
- Emergency Response: Upon arrival, police found the child near the junction of Clarendon Road and Moorland Road. Despite emergency treatment efforts, the baby succumbed to her injuries.
Investigation and Charges:
- Forensic Examination: A section of Woodhouse Moor was cordoned off for forensic analysis following the incident.
- Police Investigation: The case is being led by the West Yorkshire Police Homicide and Major Enquiry Team.
- Official Statements: Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle stated, “The death of a child in these circumstances is clearly a very tragic incident,” and urged witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
Community Impact:
- The incident has profoundly affected the local community, highlighting the critical importance of child safety and parental responsibility.
- Support services and community groups in Leeds have expressed their condolences and are offering support to those affected by the tragedy.
Seeking Information:
- Public Appeal: Authorities are appealing to anyone who was in the park around the time of the incident to provide any relevant information.
- Contact Information: Witnesses or those with information can contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team by calling 101, quoting reference 13230701073, or through the Live Chat feature online.
Conclusion:
This incident has cast a shadow over the community, reminding us of the fragility of life and the need for vigilance in safeguarding the welfare of children. As the investigation continues, further details are expected to emerge, providing clarity on this tragic event.
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