Police in Spain are investigating after a baby's body was discovered inside a freezer in a basement apartment in the town of Allariz in Galicia.
The Civil Guard has launched a probe following the discovery, which was made by a relative of the woman who had owned the freezer. The woman is now deceased. The relative found the remains after opening the appliance, which was located in the storage room of the garage area in the basement of her home.
Investigation by Ourense authorities
Authorities from the nearby city of Ourense are investigating after the discovery on Monday, according to La Voz de Galicia. The body was transferred that same day so that forensic experts could establish the cause of death.
Local reports indicate that the remains are those of a foetus of just over 32 weeks gestation. Experts are reportedly working to determine whether the child's death occurred during childbirth or was a miscarriage.
Forensic and DNA analysis
Pathologists are also seeking to determine when the baby died, with the date of death possibly as long ago as two decades. Police are said to be taking statements from family members and neighbours as part of their ongoing investigation.
Investigators are also working to establish a link between the woman who owned the freezer and the deceased child. DNA samples taken from close relatives could determine the genetic trace and clarify this point, as well as whether there is a biological link with the family.
The investigation, ordered by the Ourense courts, is ongoing.
