Urgent Appeal as Mother and Newborn Missing After Giving Birth in London Underpass
Overview
Details
Police in east London are urgently appealing for information after a woman gave birth in a Walthamstow underpass before leaving the area with her newborn child, sparking fears for their safety.
Officers received reports on Wednesday, 30 July, that a woman had delivered a baby at around 8am in the Billet Road underpass. A passer-by, who heard distressing cries, stayed to support the mother during the birth and remained with her until approximately 4pm, when the woman and her newborn were collected by two people in a blue transit van.
The Metropolitan Police believe the woman, who is currently missing, may be rough sleeping and has not sought any medical assistance since the birth.
She is described as:
- White, in her mid-30s
- Long blonde hair
- Last seen wearing a black dress and heavy jumper
- Believed to go by the name Anne Marie
Police have said they are “extremely concerned” for the welfare of both the mother and her infant.
PC Dan Cooper, from the North East Missing Persons Unit, said:
“Our top priority is to establish that the woman and her baby are safe and well and have access to any medical treatment they may need.
I would like to stress that the woman is not in any trouble. Our only concern is the wellbeing of her and her newborn child.”
The officer confirmed that fast-paced enquiries are underway, including:
- Reviewing CCTV in the area
- Hospital checks across London
- Speaking to witnesses and local businesses near the underpass and Kwik Fit garage
Police are appealing for anyone who saw the woman or the blue transit van to come forward immediately.
If you have any information, contact the North East Local Missing Hub on 07881 330 956 or call 101, quoting CAD 5617/30JUL.
Information can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.
