Human placenta found in park sparks major search

The grim discovery of a placenta on Friday afternoon sparked an urgent search to locate the mother and baby.

Authorities have provided a significant update regarding the discovery of a human placenta in a Greater Manchester park.

The unsettling find prompted an extensive search to locate the mother and baby following the discovery in Oldham on Friday. The search was initiated after a passer-by notified the police, believing they had spotted human "remains" at Werneth Park around 2:40pm.

However, the police soon confirmed that the discovery was a placenta, triggering a search to check on the well-being of the parent and child.

Greater Manchester Police have now confirmed that both the mother and baby have been located and are reportedly doing well.

Earlier, the force stated: "Incidents of this nature are extremely rare but of course will cause concern, and we share that concern. The spokesperson added: "Medical experts have advised us it is likely the birth has occurred in the last 24 hours, and it's possible mum or baby are, or could be, in need of medical attention, reports the Mirror.

"We have several enquiries underway to try and identify who the placenta belongs to, including searching various UK databases and liaising with a number of partner agencies.

"I'm appealing to anyone who either knows the identity of mum or baby, or indeed mum herself, to come forward to us so we can ensure they are doing okay."

In their update, the force expressed gratitude to the community for their assistance in the case. The spokesperson hoped that the update "provides closure to any earlier concerns".

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police has provided an update: "Following our earlier appeal in relation to a placenta which was found in Werneth Park, Oldham, earlier today (Friday 28 March 2025), we have now located mum and baby.

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"We are pleased to say that they are both safe and doing well. Alongside medical professionals, we have conducted several enquiries and are satisfied that the identity of those who have come forward match the placenta found.

"The scene will now close, and our investigation has concluded that there are no untoward circumstances."

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