POLICE have confirmed the death of a child in an incident in South Ockendon that happened yesterday (Sunday, 15 December).

And they have also confirmed arrest of a woman.

A statement from Essex Police said: "We were called to a property in Windstar Drive shortly after 3pm with reports of serious concerns for the welfare of a woman and a child.

"All emergency services were sent to the scene.

"Tragically, we can now confirm that, despite the efforts of medics, the child – a young boy – had died.

"The woman was taken to hospital for treatment and her condition did improve. 

"As a result of the information presented to us, the woman has now been arrested on suspicion of murder. 

"At this stage, we are not looking to identify anyone else as part of this investigation." 

The child is understood to have been a pupil at nearby Bonnygate Primary School.

Detective Chief Inspector Alan Blakesley, who is leading the investigation, said: "First and foremost, this a tragic incident in which a child has lost his life, and I would please ask for the South Ockendon community – and further afield – to please refrain from speculating.

"Specialist officers and staff are continuing to build a picture of the events which led up to the call to emergency services yesterday. 

"This will of course take time and a thorough investigation is now under way.

"Officers remain in the area this morning and residents will notice a footprint throughout today and I would urge anyone with concerns or any information which they believe may be useful to our investigation to please come forward, either in person or using our other reporting mechanisms." 

Anyone with information is asked to get in contact with police as soon as possible. 

The statement adds: "You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. 

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our online reporting services.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

"Please cite incident 645 of 15 December."