Four people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a three-month-old baby girl was found dead while camping with her family in woodland near Cheslyn Hay, Staffordshire. Emergency services were called to the scene on Saturday morning following reports of a child in cardiac arrest.

The incident occurred in woodland off Strawberry Lane, a location described as being hidden away from the main nature trail and not an official camping site. The area, part of the Wyrley and Essington Branch Canal Local Nature Reserve, is known to be used by locals for fishing and is frequented by dog walkers and runners.

Police detained a 42-year-old man and a 30-year-old woman from south Staffordshire, a 20-year-old woman from Wolverhampton, and an 18-year-old man from Walsall at the scene. All four have since been released on bail pending further inquiries, according to Staffordshire Police.

Detective Inspector Josh Lee stated that officers are actively gathering evidence to understand the circumstances surrounding the baby's death and are maintaining an open mind. He emphasized that the incident is being treated as isolated and urged the public to refrain from sharing unconfirmed or speculative information online.

A cordon was established around the area near a fishing lake where two camping tents had been pitched. Police maintained a presence throughout the weekend to reassure the local community, and tributes, including a bunch of roses, were left near the scene.

Residents of Cheslyn Hay, a village with approximately 7,000 inhabitants, have expressed shock and devastation over the child's death. Councillor Robert Duncan of South Staffordshire Council called for the community to avoid speculation and to grant the family and emergency responders the privacy and respect they deserve.

In response to the tragedy, Rev Samantha Hagerman, superintendent of the Cannock Chase Methodist Church Circuit, shared that thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and emergency services affected by the incident.

Investigations are ongoing as police work to piece together the events that led to the baby's death. The nature reserve's proximity to local communities means the incident has deeply affected residents, prompting a call for sensitivity and respect during the police inquiry.