Emergency services were called to a woodland area near Strawberry Lane, Great Wyrley, Staffordshire, at 08:45 BST on Saturday following a report of a child in cardiac arrest. West Midlands Ambulance Service and Midlands Air Ambulance attended the scene, but the child was pronounced dead by paramedics shortly after arrival, Staffordshire Police confirmed.
Police stated the death is being treated as unexplained at this time. Officers cordoned off the area, including a fishing lake in the Wyrley and Essington Branch Canal Local Nature Reserve, and remained on-site to conduct inquiries and provide reassurance to the local community.
Family was camping nearby
Detective Inspector Katie Gregory noted the investigation remains at an early stage and described the incident as an isolated event. She added that the child’s family was camping in the area at the time of the emergency response. A police cordon remained in place on Sunday, with officers continuing to gather evidence.
Local official urges restraint
Robert Duncan, a district councillor for the area, posted on social media that he understood the news would be upsetting for residents. He pledged to share updates once full and confirmed details were available and asked the public to avoid speculation while respecting the privacy of the family and responders.
Scene details emerge
Drone footage from the site showed four tents and camping chairs positioned near fishing platforms along the woodland area. Roads surrounding the location were closed throughout the day as detectives continued their inquiries. Police have not released the child’s name or further identifying details.
The force has not confirmed the child’s age in public statements, though Staffordshire Police later clarified the child was three months old in a follow-up update. No further information has been provided about the circumstances leading to the emergency call.