Neglect arrest over death of baby

Police have confirmed they visited a house in Birmingham hours before the death of a baby boy.

A woman, 37, has been arrested on suspicion of child neglect after officers were called twice to an address on Culford Drive, Bartley Green, on Wednesday.

They initially carried out a welfare check in the morning, and hours later were called to reports of a baby having a medical emergency.

West Midlands Police said the boy had been taken to hospital, where he died, and the matter had been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

"We understand the concerns of the community of this incident, but we would ask the public not to speculate on the circumstances," a police spokesperson said.

The woman remains in police custody for questioning.

One neighbour told the BBC the baby's death was "heartbreaking" and something she never thought would happen on her doorstep.

Another described it as a "close" and friendly community, with people in the cul-de-sac often helping one another out.

West Midlands Ambulance said its crews were called to a private address at 16:36 and, on arrival, found a baby in a critical condition receiving CPR.

It added the child was taken to Midland Metropolitan University Hospital in Smethwick.

"Sadly, despite everyone's best efforts, the baby could not be saved and was confirmed dead shortly after arrival at hospital," a spokesperson said.

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