‘Exceptionally tragic’: Child declared deceased at Dunholme End property as Major Crime Unit launches investigation – scene-watch to remain ‘for some time’
A murder investigation has been launched after a four-year-old boy was found dead at his home in a quiet residential street in Maidenhead, with a 37-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of murder.
Police were called to the address in Dunholme End, a residential cul-de-sac in the Cox Green area of Maidenhead, Berkshire, at 6.30pm yesterday evening where the young child was tragically declared deceased at the scene.
The woman, who is from Maidenhead, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody as Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Unit leads the investigation into what officers are calling an “exceptionally tragic incident.”
Officers have informed the boy’s next of kin, who are being supported by specially trained officers, though formal identification and other coronial processes have not yet been undertaken.
Quiet residential street stunned
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the quiet residential neighbourhood of Dunholme End, a small cul-de-sac of around 12 detached and semi-detached family homes in the sought-after Cox Green area.
The street, located just off Shoppenhangers Road and within walking distance of local schools and amenities, is home to a mix of family houses built between the 1930s and 1970s, with properties typically selling for between £500,000 and £685,000.
Neighbours in the typically peaceful area – where the average resident is in their early 40s and households own an average of 1.8 cars – were stunned to see police vehicles swarming the street yesterday evening.
‘No wider risk’ to community
Detective Inspector Rob Underhill, of Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Unit, said: “This is an exceptionally tragic incident, in which a young boy has tragically passed away.
Although formal identification has not yet taken place, the boy’s next of kin are aware and my thoughts, and the thoughts of all of us at Thames Valley Police, are with them at this extremely difficult time.
He added: “There is a scene-watch in place at the address while the investigation continues. We are still in the very early stages of this investigation and have made an arrest in connection with this incident.
Scene-watch to remain ‘for some time’
The senior detective acknowledged the impact on the local community but sought to reassure residents there was no wider threat.
I recognise the concern this will cause in the local community. However, we are confident that there is no wider risk to the community and thank you for your patience as our officers continue their work,” DI Underhill said.
“The scene-watch is likely to remain in place for some time, and I would urge anybody who has any concerns to please speak to any of our officers at the scene.”
Cox Green community in shock
The incident has left the close-knit Cox Green community reeling. The area, which falls within the Maidenhead South policing neighbourhood, typically sees low crime rates compared to other parts of the Thames Valley.
Recent data shows that in January 2024, just 16 crimes were reported within half a mile of the postcode – making yesterday’s tragedy all the more shocking for local residents.
The neighbourhood is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with many households having young children. The area boasts good schools and is popular with commuters, being just 1.8 kilometres from Maidenhead railway station.
Police appeal for information
Thames Valley Police have launched an urgent appeal for anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
DI Underhill said: “I would also ask anybody who believes that they may have any information that may assist this investigation to contact Thames Valley Police by calling us on 101 or reporting online, quoting reference 43250287064.
Alternatively, if you don’t wish to speak directly with police, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Major Crime Unit investigation
The investigation is being led by Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Unit, which handles the force’s most serious cases including murders and other complex investigations.
Officers remained at the scene throughout the night and into this morning, with forensic teams expected to conduct detailed examinations of the property over the coming days.
The arrest of the 37-year-old woman suggests police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the death, though the investigation remains in its early stages.
Support for officers
DI Underhill acknowledged the impact such tragic cases have on the officers involved, many of whom are parents themselves.
Cases involving young children are among the most difficult our officers face,” a police source said. The entire force’s thoughts are with this little boy’s family at this unimaginably difficult time.
Community rallies together
As news of the tragedy spread through the local community, residents expressed their shock and sadness at the loss of such a young life.
The incident marks one of the most tragic events to hit the usually peaceful Maidenhead area in recent years, with the death of a child in such circumstances sending ripples of grief through the entire community.
Local councillors and community leaders are expected to offer support to residents affected by the tragedy in the coming days.
Investigation continues
As the murder investigation continues, police are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the four-year-old’s death.
Detectives will be examining the scene, gathering forensic evidence, and speaking to neighbours and potential witnesses as they piece together what happened in the house on Dunholme End.
The 37-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of murder is expected to be questioned by detectives today as the investigation progresses.
For now, the quiet residential street remains cordoned off, a tragic crime scene where a young life was cut devastatingly short.
