Police launch murder probe after 7-year-old boy is found dead at home in Haverfordwest as woman is arrested

Friday, January 12, 2024 – A woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a seven-year-old boy was found dead in a gym building.

The woman and her two young children had lived at a flat on the property for the last 18 months.

Following the shocking discovery, police sealed off the terraced three-storey building in the quiet market town of Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire.

The ground floor was formerly a physiotherapy studio and gym called TriExercise in the town's Upper Market Street.

Neighbours said the woman was Asian and had never mixed with locals, sometimes not replying if they said Good Morning in the street.

Hospital doctor Sean Phelan, 69, who lives next door said: 'I was asleep when the police arrived - I woke up to find the street had been sealed off.

'All I know is that there was a serious incident involving a child.

'The lady was always quite friendly to me but I didn't know her well. I've never seen a man there.

'The children were well looked after, well-dressed, and well-behaved. There has never been any trouble here before.'

Police sealed off the street at 10.45am on Wednesday morning after a 999 call.

A nearby Samaritans charity shop had to lock up for the day while police and forensic officers were at the scene.

The offices of Preseli-Pembrokeshire Welsh Assembly member Paul Davies are just four doors away.

Another neighbour, who didn't want to be named, said: 'I've heard the child was strangled, it's too dreadful to think about.

'Children went back to school earlier this week so I don't know why the child was at home - unless whatever happened took place the night before.'

A single bunch of flowers was laid outside the property which was still sealed off by police tape today (Thurs)

Lee Evans, 39, who lives opposite, said: 'I've seen the woman in the street with her two children. I'd say hello or good morning but she wouldn't reply.

'It used to be a quiet street but it's got a lot worse around here lately.'

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesman said:'We are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the death of a child in Haverfordwest.

'Officers were called to an address in Upper Market Street just before 10.45am on Wednesday, January 10.

'Sadly, a seven-year-old was confirmed to have died shortly after.

'Our thoughts are with their loved ones at this tragic time.

'A woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.'