Woman, 37, arrested over child's death in Trealaw

  • Published
picture of police outside a house in Brithweunydd RoadImage source, Dimitris Legakis
Image caption,

Brithweunydd Road has been closed while the police investigation takes place

A woman has been arrested after a child was found dead at a property in Rhondda Cynon Taff.

She has been named locally as Amelia Harris.

The 37-year-old was detained when emergency services were called to an address in Trealaw at about 22:20 BST on Friday.

South Wales Police said it was aware of "strong concern and reaction" locally but asked people not to speculate about the incident on social media.

Tributes have been left near the scene, including a teddy bear with a card saying "RIP Princess Amelia".

One family member who did not wish to be named told BBC Wales Amelia was a "beautiful young baby".

Police have not given the age or gender of the child but said the death is being treated as unexplained.

The nature of the allegation against the woman, who is being held at Merthyr Tydfil station, is also unknown.

Chief Supt Dorian Lloyd said an incident room has been set up and specially-trained officers are supporting family and the local community.

Image caption,

Flowers and cuddly toys have been left near the scene

He added: "I am aware of the deep concern and upset locally, but would urge all members of the community to refrain from speculating on the incident and to demonstrate responsibility when posting content on social media.

"I encourage everyone to think carefully about the consequences of messages - when using social media - and how they may impact on others.

"Positive action will be taken against those who post messages that are abusive, threatening or insulting."

Media caption,

Councillor Gareth Wyn Hughes said the community was devastated by the death

Brithweunydd Road near Tonypandy was closed all day as investigations continued, and has now reopened.

Police said on Saturday evening that the 37-year-old woman remains in custody.

Rhondda MP Chris Bryant tweeted, external on Saturday: "Very disturbing events in Trealaw last night.

"I've spoken to police and my gratitude goes to the paramedics and police who have been dealing with what must have been very upsetting scenes."

Image source, Wales News Service
Image caption,

Brithweunydd Road has been closed while the police investigation takes place

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