A dead baby found in snowy fields near Salford have been confirmed as a newborn girl.
Emergency services rushed to the field, close to the M61 motorway bridge in Ashton Field, Salford, after a dog walker spotted the infant on Wednesday, November 20. As the tragic find sent shockwaves through the community and tributes were laid for the baby, the police issued an appeal for the child’s mother, family or anyone with information to come forward.
In a heartbreaking update, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed the body is that of a newborn girl, who has been named Ava. The updated came as the results of the post-mortem examination were shared, with the cause of death remaining “unascertained pending further investigation”, the police added.
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(Image: SWNS)
While police are likely to wrap up their investigation at the scene this weekend, their search for the bay girl’s mum continues. The force fear she may need medical attention, reports Liverpool Echo.
Detective Chief Inspector Charlotte Whalley said: “We know that this case has touched the hearts of many people across Greater Manchester, and like you, we’re determined to find out what happened to this little girl.”
Sympathy cards, flowers, teddies and even a jacket with as fur-lined hood have been left on the nearby pavement, as Brits express their compassion for both Ava and her mother.
(Image: SWNS)
Since finding the baby, forecast officers have combed the area for clues that would help identify who brought Ava to the field.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “The scene is set to close this weekend, with the tributes left by members of the public being donated to children’s charities. Our appeal for Ava’s mum, her family, or anyone who knows anything about what may have happened to Ava, to come forward remains active.
“Following the tragic discovery of baby remains last week off Cleggs Lane, by Ashtons Field in Little Hulton, we can now confirm that the baby is a newborn girl, who we have called Ava.
(Image: Greater Manchester Police / SWNS)
“Following a post-mortem examination yesterday (Wednesday 27 November) the cause of Ava’s death remains unascertained, with further pathological and forensic testing required.
“Over the past seven days, officers from across the force have worked tirelessly, conducting hours of house-to-house and CCTV enquiries, plus liaising with local and national partners to try and determine exactly what happened to Ava.”