Newborn Baby Elsa Found in East Ham – Police Urgently Seek Woman and Witness
Detectives have stepped up their hunt a week after newborn Baby Elsa was discovered abandoned in East Ham. They’ve released descriptions of a woman they want to speak to, plus a possible eyewitness who may help crack the case.
Key Sightings Before Baby Elsa Was Found
The woman was spotted heading into The Greenway, E6, from the High Street South entrance at around 9.45pm on Thursday, 18 January. Just 30 minutes later, Baby Elsa was found wrapped in a towel inside a reusable shopping bag at the junction of The Greenway and High Street South.
Police Appeal for Crucial Witnesses
Chief Superintendent Simon Crick, leading the investigation, said:
“A week on, I want to thank the media and public for sharing our appeal nationwide. Everyone is deeply concerned for Baby Elsa and her mother’s welfare. We’ve received 17 tips from the public, all being carefully followed up. Baby Elsa is safe and has now left hospital, with Newham Council ensuring she’s well cared for. We’ve gathered lots of CCTV footage and identified a woman we need to talk to, plus a witness who may have seen her. We believe the woman is black, wearing a large dark coat with a light-coloured scarf or hood, and carrying a rucksack. She entered The Greenway from High Street South and left towards Fabian Street. We’re also looking for a male witness, seen leaving The Greenway around 9:10pm, wearing a dark hooded coat and a backpack with a reflective strip. If you have any info or think this could be you, please get in touch immediately – even if you are not involved, your input helps us focus elsewhere. We’ve canvassed local homes and businesses, spoken to hospitals, social workers, and charities. All signs suggest Baby Elsa was born after a concealed pregnancy and her mother hasn’t been in contact with support services. To Baby Elsa’s mother: your daughter is safe but you might need urgent help. Please call 999 or go to hospital. We want to support you. Lastly, most online comments are kind and supportive, but a few have been hurtful and unhelpful. Please remember her mother might read what’s written. Let’s focus on finding her and ensuring she is safe.”
Urgent Police Contact Details
If you think you know Baby Elsa’s mother or have any info about the woman or witness, contact police immediately on 999, quoting reference CAD 6876/18 Jan.
