Nurse arrested on suspicion of murder after EIGHT babies die

A nurse who was arrested a year ago on suspicion of the murders of eight babies has been re-arrested for the same crime, as well as the attempted murder of a further nine infants.

UK nurse Lucy Letby was arrested last July by detectives examining deaths of infants at the Countess of Chester Hospital between 2015 and 2016.

The 29-year-old was originally questioned over the alleged murders of eight babies and the attempted murders of six others.

Her initial arrest came after doctors raised concerns about a "higher than usual number of neonatal deaths" in June 2015.

Police say they are now examining the alleged attempted murders of three other newborns at the hospital's neo-natal unit, taking the total number of potential victims to 17.

“As part of our ongoing investigation we have today re-arrested the healthcare professional on suspicion of murder in relation to the deaths of eight babies and the attempted murder of six babies,” said Police Detective Inspector Paul Hughes.

“She has also been arrested in connection with the attempted murder of three additional babies. The woman is currently in custody helping officers with their enquiries.”

After Letby was first arrested last year, police searched her home and her parents home. She has been out on bail ever since.

The parents of the babies involved in the investigation are being informed of any developments and are being supported by specialist workers.

“I would like to reassure people that we are doing everything we can as quickly as we can to identify what has led to these baby deaths and collapses,” added DI Hughes.

“Due to the nature of this investigation it is extremely challenging but it is important to remember that it is very much active and ongoing.”