Detectives have launched a fresh emotional appeal for information in the heart-wrenching case of a newborn baby girl found abandoned in a Sidcup street, releasing new details about the infant's distinctive clothing in hopes of tracing her mother.
The mystery surrounding 'Baby Ava' continues to baffle authorities nearly two years after her discovery, with Kent Police now revealing crucial information about unique white underwear found with the infant that could hold the key to identifying her family.
The Chilling Discovery
On a quiet September evening in 2022, residents of Sidcup were shaken by the discovery of a newborn baby girl wrapped in a white blanket and left outside a home in Kingsmead Close. The infant, believed to be less than one hour old when found, was rushed to hospital where she was given the name Ava by caring hospital staff.
"She was found wrapped in a white blanket, wearing a white baby-grow and a nappy," revealed Detective Chief Inspector Kath Way, the officer leading the investigation. "But it's the distinctive underwear that we believe could be crucial to solving this case."
The Crucial Clothing Evidence
Police have disclosed that the baby was found with a specific pair of white briefs bearing the marking 'Age 11-12 years' with a distinctive horizontal stitched seam across the back. The underwear, described as "quite unique," was discovered inside the blanket alongside the newborn.
"We believe these items may have belonged to the mother and could be vital in helping us identify her," explained DCI Way. "Someone must recognise these specific details - perhaps a friend, family member, or even a retailer who stocks this particular design."
An Emotional Plea to Mother
In a moving address, detectives have made a direct appeal to Ava's mother, expressing deep concern for her wellbeing nearly two years after the traumatic event.
"We are incredibly concerned for your welfare and want to make sure you are getting the help and support you need," said DCI Way. "We understand this must have been an incredibly traumatic time for you, but we need to make sure you are safe and well."
The Community's Response
The local community in Sidcup has been deeply affected by the case, with many residents expressing shock that such an incident could occur in their neighbourhood. Local shops and community centres have displayed police appeals, while social media groups have circulated information in hopes of generating new leads.
Baby Ava herself is described as "happy, healthy and thriving" in her current care arrangement, though the mystery of her origins continues to cast a shadow over her young life.
How You Can Help
Kent Police are urging anyone with information - no matter how insignificant it may seem - to come forward. Specifically, they're seeking:
- Anyone who recognises the description of the distinctive underwear
- Information about a woman who was pregnant in September 2022 but hasn't been seen with a baby
- Details about unusual activity in the Kingsmead Close area around September 17th, 2022
- Anyone with concerns about a friend or family member who may be connected to this case
The investigation continues as police remain hopeful that this new information will finally provide the breakthrough needed to solve this emotional mystery and ensure both mother and child receive the support they need.
