Hikers find baby in pond Belgium: ‘Devastated with sadness’ | Abroad

During their walk, a regular group of hikers saw mortal remains floating in a pond of nature reserve Blaasveldbroek in Willebroek. According to Flemish media, it concerns a newborn baby.

It was the neighbors of Yolande Emmerechts from the Broekstraat who found the mortal remains along the side of the pond. Her husband and next door neighbor were also there. “The police took good care of our neighbors across the street,” Yolande told Het Nieuwsblad.

“The man stood firm and made a statement. His wife is very shocked. She was offered victim support, but she declined. We have a good relationship here in the neighborhood and are there to support each other.”

The incident caused quite a stir in the neighbourhood. The neighbor is ‘devastated with grief’, other residents explain to Het Laatste Nieuws.

Justice

Justice confirms the find and has sent the laboratory and a doctor on site for an examination. An investigating judge was also appointed. The area around the pond was thoroughly investigated and a team of divers searched for traces in the water.

At the moment it is unclear what exactly happened. The prosecutor’s office assumes a suspicious death and says that “all tracks remain open.” An autopsy will be performed.

—