Murder arrest after death of two children in Stafford

A 43-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the deaths of two children.

Emergency services were called to a home on Corporation Street, Stafford, at about 07:30 BST, where the two children were pronounced dead.

Staffordshire Police confirmed a woman from the Stafford area had been arrested and remained in custody.

“We are working hard to understand more about what happened leading up to these two children tragically losing their lives,” said Det Insp Kirsty Oldfield.

She added: “We ask that people do not speculate at this stage as it is distressing for family and friends and could hinder our inquiries.”

Luke Browne, who lives on the street, said he had seen a forensic van and a police car parked there as he left for work on Sunday morning.

“It’s very sad,” he said, “children dying is a horror. It’s quite painful to hear [about] it.”

The 61-year-old book shop owner added: “I’ve only lived there a year but everybody I’ve met has been lovely.”

Sebastian Grzesiak, who also lives nearby, said he was also shocked.

“It’s a very quiet and friendly street,” he said.

Officers were called to the home by West Midlands Ambulance Service.

The children’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers, the force says.

The ages of the children have not yet been confirmed and a cordon remains in place at the home.

“We understand that this incident may cause concern in the local community,” added Det Insp Oldfield.

“There is no threat to the wider public.”

Paramedics were sent to the property at 07:26, where the two children were discovered, the ambulance service confirmed.

“Sadly, it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save them and they were confirmed dead at the scene,” a spokesperson said.

Anyone with information that could help with the investigation is asked to contact Staffordshire Police.