NSW Police are urgently trying to locate the mother of a newborn baby boy whose body was found inside a garbage bin in Auburn, in Sydney’s west. Emergency services were called to Harrow Road shortly after 11.20am on Monday after a local resident made the distressing discovery. Police say they have serious concerns for the mother’s welfare and are urging her to seek immediate medical attention.
A crime scene has been established in Harrow Road, Auburn, after the body of a newborn baby boy was discovered in a rubbish bin.
Emergency services were called to the area at about 11.20am on Monday.
Acting Superintendent Darren Sly, from Auburn Police Area Command, said the baby was found by a local woman who had gone to use the bins.
He described the circumstances as deeply distressing.
“It’s very traumatic for that particular lady who found that baby,” he told reporters.
He added that the death of a newborn in such circumstances was “sad and horrific”.
Police urge the mother to come forward
NSW Police say their immediate concern is not only determining what happened to the baby, but also finding the infant’s mother.
In a statement, police said they hold serious concerns for her welfare and urged her to attend the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
The appeal suggests investigators believe the mother may require urgent medical care following the birth.
Police have not released any details about her identity or current whereabouts.
Crime scene established in Auburn
Officers have secured the area around the bins while detectives begin examining the circumstances surrounding the baby’s death.
At this stage, police have not publicly confirmed how long the baby had been there, when the child was born or the cause of death.
Those questions are expected to form part of the investigation and any subsequent forensic examination.
Authorities have also not suggested that any particular person is responsible for a criminal offence.
Appeal for witnesses
Police are asking anyone who was in or around Harrow Road, Auburn, and may have seen anything unusual to come forward.
Investigators are likely to examine CCTV footage, speak with nearby residents and businesses and reconstruct movements in the area before the discovery.
Anyone with information is being urged to contact Auburn Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Police are expected to provide further information as the investigation develops.
