Newborn Baby Discovered in Keilor Downs Backyard, Investigation Underway

A newborn baby was discovered in a backyard in Keilor Downs, Melbourne's north-west, on Thursday morning. The infant and a 22-year-old woman were transported to hospital in stable condition, as police launched an investigation into the circumstances of the discovery.

Emergency services were alerted shortly before 8 am on Thursday after a member of the public reported finding a newborn baby in their backyard on Copernicus Way in Keilor Downs.

Discovery and Emergency Response

Paramedics, including Advanced Life Support and Mobile Intensive Care teams, responded to the scene in Keilor Downs.

A 22-year-old woman, located at a nearby address, was also attended to by paramedics. Both the newborn and the woman were subsequently transported to the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Sunshine, part of Western Health. As of Thursday afternoon, both individuals were reported to be in stable condition.

Investigation Details

An investigation into the incident has been commenced by police, with the Brimbank Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team leading the inquiry. Detectives and forensic investigators were present at the scene throughout the day.

Police established a cordon with tape around the primary residence on Copernicus Way and a neighboring property. SES tents were observed covering items on the nature strip and in one of the backyards. Detectives and SES volunteers were also seen at a property on nearby Dion Street, which had its driveway blocked by police tape. Forensic officers arrived later in the afternoon to inspect and photograph the properties involved.

Neighbor Observations

Local residents reported hearing emergency sirens around 8 am. Some neighbors also stated they had heard arguing and loud noises from one of the homes prior to the baby's discovery. Residents observed the presence of multiple police cars, an ambulance, and police personnel in the street following the incident. One local noted a police tent in the backyard of a neighboring home.

Police Appeal

Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Crime Stoppers.