A newborn baby’s body was found in a wheelie bin in Auckland’s Freemans Bay last night, sparking a homicide investigation.
Police earlier announced they had discovered a body at around 10pm on Tuesday.
Detective Inspector Scott Beard said a woman was in custody and police were not looking for anyone else in connection with the matter.
“This is a tragedy for everyone concerned and there is a person’s wellbeing to consider here alongside the investigation, so we will ensure the woman gets the support she needs.
“Police acknowledge this will understandably be quite confronting information for the community to grapple with.”
A post-mortem was being carried out today to determine the next steps, police said.
“We would ask the public to avoid speculation given what has occurred and allow investigators to carry out their work.”
Residents and shopkeepers told 1News the behaviour of some occupants at the house had prompted previous complaints to police. They said they often heard yelling and what sounded like fights at the house.
Others told 1News an occupant at the address had recently slashed the tyres of several vehicles on the street, while another claimed they had been assaulted by a person from the property.
It’s unknown whether the woman in custody is the subject of the complaints.
A neighbour told 1News there was a police presence in the street earlier on Tuesday afternoon. He said officers were looking into wheelie bins on the street at about 5pm and appeared unhurried and relaxed.
Beard said there would be an increased police presence in the area while the investigation continued.
“Members of the public can be assured there is no risk to public safety,” he said.
The morning’s headlines in 90 seconds, including Australia’s weather bomb, the surprising costs of getting one more dog, and BTS are back. (Source: 1News)
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation could make a report via 105, using the file number 250630/9878 and quote “Operation Yarrow” or contact police online, via 105 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
