A mother has been formally charged with murder following the tragic death of her 18-day-old baby, who fell from a residential building in Westminster on Saturday morning. The infant was rushed to hospital but sadly succumbed to injuries, prompting a swift police investigation that has now led to criminal charges.
Charges and Custody Arrangements
Zahira Byjaouane, aged 43 and residing on Horseferry Road in Westminster, was charged with murder on Sunday, 15 March. She has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Monday, 16 March, as authorities move forward with legal proceedings in this heartbreaking case.
Police Response and Initial Reports
The Metropolitan Police responded to an emergency call at approximately 07:30 hours on Saturday, 14 March, after reports indicated that a baby had fallen from a height at a residential property on Horseferry Road. Officers attended the scene promptly, where the baby was treated by the London Ambulance Service before being transported to a major trauma centre. Despite medical efforts, the infant did not survive.
The Met Police confirmed that the woman charged is the mother of the baby, adding a layer of domestic context to the incident. Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell emphasised the tragedy, stating, 'The death of a baby is always an extremely tragic occurrence,' and noting that officers are conducting urgent inquiries to unravel the circumstances surrounding the fall.
Scene Investigation and Forensic Work
Forensic investigators were actively working at the scene throughout Saturday, with officers in blue forensics suits seen examining the third-floor flat from which the baby fell. The police cordon, which initially covered most of Great Peter Street near Horseferry Road, was later lifted, but not before thorough evidence collection took place.
Mourners gathered to pay their respects, leaving flowers—including tulips and roses—and a soft toy animal near the Peabody Estate building. This poignant display highlighted the community's shock and grief over the loss of such a young life. Police stood guard beside the cordon, maintaining a presence as the investigation unfolded.
Appeal for Information
Detectives from the Met's Specialist Crime Command are now leading the investigation, focusing on the domestic context of the incident. Authorities have appealed to the public for any information that could assist in their inquiries. Witnesses are urged to call 101, quoting reference number 1596/14MAR, to help piece together the events leading up to the baby's fall.
DCI Foxwell reiterated the appeal, saying, 'At this stage we believe the incident occurred within a domestic context, but we are appealing for anybody with information to come forward.' This call underscores the ongoing efforts to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the tragedy.
The case continues to develop as legal proceedings commence, with the community and authorities alike grappling with the profound sadness of an infant's death under such circumstances.
