Newborn Baby Abandoned in Shopping Bag on Freezing London Street
A heart-stopping discovery in east London: a newborn baby girl, just an hour old, was found abandoned inside a shopping bag on a freezing night when temperatures plunged to -4°C. The little one, named Elsa by hospital staff, was spotted wrapped up but unharmed in Newham.
Hero Dog Walker Finds Baby in Newham
The infant was found at 9:13 pm near the junction of Greenway and High Street South by a dog walker who heard her crying. The baby, believed to be of black or mixed-race heritage, was quickly rushed to hospital and is now receiving expert care.
Police Urge Mother to Come Forward
Chief Superintendent Simon Crick, local policing chief for north-east London, spoke at a press conference urging the mother to seek help immediately. “Trained medics and specialist officers are ready to support her,” he said. “If you are the baby’s mother, please know your daughter is safe. No matter your circumstances, please come forward.”
Authorities are concerned for the mother’s welfare, recognising she might have gone through a traumatic birth and may need urgent medical attention.
Community Shocked as Police Launch Appeal
Local residents voiced their horror but relief that the child survived the freezing night. Paul Diamond, who lives nearby, said, “We’re so thankful she’s okay.” Newham Council is working closely with the Metropolitan Police to safeguard Elsa in the short term.
Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE added, “Our thoughts are with the mother. We have local services ready to offer care and support during this difficult time.”
Public Help Needed to Find Elsa’s Mother
Police are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch immediately. If you know anything about the baby or her mother, call the Metropolitan Police on 999 quoting reference CAD 6876/18 Jan. The hope is to locate the mother and ensure she receives the help she needs.
