Police issue update following death of baby after ‘medical episode’ at nursery

Police investigating the death of an eight-month-old girl in Stockport have issued an update, one week on from the tragedy. Emergency services raced out to Tiny Toes Children’s Day Nursery, in Cheadle Hulme, following a report of the child suffering a medical episode.

North West Ambulance Service attended the Mellor Road nursery at around 3.20pm last Monday, May 9, and took the baby to hospital. She sadly died in hospital later on the same day.

Last Friday (May 13), detectives investigating the death arrested two women – aged 35 and 34 – on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. In an update issued today (Monday), GMP says the pair have since been bailed pending further enquiries.

In a statement issued last Friday, Det Supt Phil Duffy, from GMP’s Stockport CID, said: “Our thoughts are very much with baby girl’s family who are understandably shocked and devastated and we’re doing everything we can to get them the answers they deserve. Since we were called, we’ve carried out a number of lines of enquiry already and now two arrests have been made as our investigation continues.

“Officers are continuing to work to establish the full facts around what happened and ascertain the circumstances behind this tragedy. This is a heart-breaking time for all those involved and we would ask that the public respect the family’s privacy at this time and avoid speculation whilst we continue to investigate.”

Ofsted confirmed last week it had suspended Tiny Toes Children’s Day Nursery ‘to allow time for other agencies to complete their enquiries’ while the investigation takes place. Its owner, Franck Pelle, said on Friday: “Our heartfelt condolences and deepest sorrow are with the parents and family at this devastating time.

“We are working closely with all involved to assist and due to the sensitivities and ongoing investigation we are unable to comment any further at this time.” Stockport Council confirmed it was aware of the tragic death and would await the outcome of the investigation.

Anyone with information about the death is asked to report it to GMP online at the force’s website. Anyone affected or needing support can contact Greater Manchester Victims’ Services.