Horror as 8-month-old baby ‘killed by mother’ shocking neighbourhood | World | News

A mother accused of killing her baby appeared in court after police found her dead at home and neighbors reported hearing a woman screaming in the street. Alanah Gail Smithwick, 28, was taken to hospital after emergency services responded to the incident that occurred in the Baldivis suburb of Perth, Western Australia, at around 10.15 on Thursday.

An 8-month-old baby was found dead at home. Smithwick has been charged with murder and will appear in court at a later date after appearing by video on Friday. Australian media report that he remains at Fiona Stanley Hospital in Perth, where his condition is described as stable. Western Australia (WA) Police said forensic teams were scouring the property for clues as to how the horror unfolded. Halloween decorations and a stroller could be seen on the front lawn at the property on Friday. 9News reports the baby is believed to have died from stab wounds.

In a previously released statement, WA Police said emergency services were called to the home on Winpara Road in Baldivis, about 45km south of the Perth CBD, at around 10.15am on Thursday.

“Unfortunately, when we arrived at the scene, it was determined that an eight-month-old baby had died. Detectives were sent to the scene and an investigation was launched into the child’s death.

“The death is being treated as suspicious.”

Smithwick appeared at Rockingham Court on Friday.

Neighbors on 9 News said a woman identified as the dead baby’s grandmother took the toddler from the home shortly after police arrived.

Neighbor Graham told the news channel: “I really don’t know what to say, I’m in shock,” while another resident, Prescinda, added: “Pretty shaken, so sad.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact WA Police on 131 444 or inform Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestopperswa.com.au.