In a heart-wrenching incident, a newborn baby was discovered abandoned in a shopping bag on a London street during an “extremely cold” night with temperatures reaching -4°C. The baby, who was just an hour old, has been named Elsa by hospital staff, and authorities are urgently seeking information to identify and locate the mother.
Chief Superintendent Simon Crick, local policing commander for north-east London, held a press conference in Newham to provide details about the baby’s discovery. The infant, who is believed to be of black or mixed race heritage, was found by a dog walker at the junction of Greenway and High Street South in Newham, east London, at 9:13 pm.
Fortunately, the baby girl was found unharmed and is currently receiving care in a hospital. Police expressed their concern for the mother’s well-being, recognising that she may have gone through a traumatic experience during childbirth and might require immediate medical attention.
Chief Superintendent Crick urged the mother to come forward, saying, “Trained medics and specialist officers are ready to support her, and we urge her to get in touch by phone or walk into the nearest hospital or police station. If you are the baby’s mother, please know that your daughter is well. No matter what your circumstances, please do seek help.”
The dog walker who discovered the baby alerted authorities after hearing the sound of crying. Police are now appealing for information from the public and encouraging anyone who may know the girl or be able to identify her mother to contact them.
Local residents in the area expressed their shock and concern over the incident. Paul Diamond, who lives near the location where the baby was found, expressed gratitude that the baby survived the freezing night. Newham Council is working closely with the Metropolitan Police to ensure the child’s safeguarding in the short term.
Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE shared her relief that the baby girl is safe and expressed concern for the well-being of the mother. She emphasized the availability of local services to support the mother with the care and sensitivity she deserves during this difficult time.
Anyone with information related to this incident has been urged to contact the Metropolitan Police at 999, quoting reference CAD 6876/18 Jan. Authorities are hopeful that information from the public will help locate the mother and provide her with the necessary support and care.
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