An investigation is underway after the remains of a foetus were found beneath Hodder Bridge on Whalley Road in Stonyhurst, Lancashire. Officers were called to the scene at around 3.15pm on Tuesday 11 August.
Discovery and police response
Lancashire Constabulary confirmed the discovery in a statement, saying: "At 3:13pm on Tuesday 11th August we were called to reports of the discovery of remains of a foetus close to the area beneath Hodder Bridge, Whalley Road, Stonyhurst. Officers attended and a scene is currently in place with enquiries ongoing."
Police have cordoned off the area and are working to establish how the remains came to be at that location.
Appeal for information
The force acknowledged the concerning nature of the find, stating: "We know this is concerning to hear about, and we want to reassure you that a full investigation is underway to determine how the remains came to be at the location they were found."
Officers have appealed for anyone who witnessed anything unusual in the area between Sunday and Tuesday at 3pm to come forward. Drivers who were travelling over the bridge and have dashcam footage are also urged to contact police.
Information can be reported by calling 101 and quoting incident number 864 of August 11.
Context
A foetus is defined as an unborn baby from the eleventh week of pregnancy until birth. The age of the foetus has not been disclosed by police.
