Baby boy dies after 'being thrown in river' as man, 22, is arrested on suspicion of murder

11 September 2019, 18:44

A baby boy who was 'thrown into the River Irwell' earlier this afternoon has died.

A 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody for questioning.

Police were called to the river in Radcliffe, Greater Manchester, shortly after 4.25pm today.

Detectives have said the victim is believed to be almost 12-months old.

Local media reports have suggested the child was thrown into the river.

Emergency services attended the scene and retrieved the young child with the support of a police helicopter.

Despite best efforts from paramedics and specialist doctors, the boy was pronounced dead at hospital.

Blackburn Street is currently closed at the junctions with Stand Lane and Radcliffe New Road.

An investigation is underway and detectives have urged anyone with information to get in touch.

DSI Jamie Daniels said: "This is an incredibly tragic incident that has led to an innocent baby boy losing his life and we are doing everything we can to support his family at this unimaginably devastating time.

"I know his loss will be felt by the entire community and out thoughts are very much with his loved ones this evening.

"A murder investigation is underway and we are working hard to piece together the circumstances that led to the baby boy ending up in the water.

"Whilst we have a man in custody, our investigation is ongoing and I'd urge any witnesses or anyone with any information to get in touch as soon as possible so that we can find out what happened to him."

Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting incident number 1930 of 11/09/2019, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

More to follow.