Sea Mills grieves for three little children

SEA Mills is a community in mourning following the deaths of three at house in Blaise Walk.

 in Bristol.

 Police were called to the property early on February 18 and found siblings Fares, seven, Joury, three and baby Mohammed Bash, who were all  pronounced dead.

As the Voice went to print, a 42-year-old woman arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder remained in custody in hospital.

Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Vicks Hayward-Melen said: “This is an incredibly tragic and heart-breaking incident in which three children have sadly died.

 “My sincere condolences go to the children’s loved ones and we will be ensuring they are offered support through our family liaison unit.

 “We believe this to be an isolated incident and there is no further risk to the wider community, however officers will remain at the scene to provide reassurance to anyone who has any questions or concerns.

 “Over the coming days, residents can expect to see an increased police presence and we thank them for their cooperation during this time.”

The Avon & Somerset force has notified the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), due to “prior police contact” with the family.

Members of the Sudanese community in Bristol gathered at a nearby church the following day and said they were seeking answers about what had happened and how the family could have been helped.

Bristol North West MP Darren Jones said he was “deeply saddened by the tragic news”.  

He added: “My thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of the children, and my thanks go to our emergency services who responded.”

The city’s mayor Marvin Rees said: “It’s almost impossible to find the words to describe this afternoon’s devastating news.

“My thoughts are with all who knew these three young children.

“We will be working with schools, the community, and Avon and Somerset Police to support people.”

 Police ask anyone with information that could help their investigation to call 101 and give the call handler the reference 5224042788, or contact them  through the force website.