30 Years On: Police Renew Hunt for Baby April’s Killer
Kent Police have launched a fresh appeal for leads in the heartbreaking case of Baby April. The newborn’s body was found dumped at Singleton Lake, Ashford, on April 3, 1995. Now, on the 30th anniversary, detectives hope modern DNA and forensic breakthroughs will crack the cold case wide open.
The Tragic Discovery of Baby April
The tiny body of Baby April, a newborn girl weighing 7lbs, was found wrapped in a Kleenex tissue inside a Motaworld carrier bag at Singleton Lake. An autopsy revealed she likely died from asphyxiation, meaning she was deliberately prevented from breathing shortly after birth.
Investigators believe Baby April was born between March 25 and April 3, 1995 — just days before her body was discovered. Despite extensive inquiries, no trace of her parents or relatives has ever emerged.
Cold Case Gets New Life with DNA Advances
In May 2011, Kent Police exhumed Baby April’s body from Bybrook Cemetery to extract a full DNA profile. Although this new evidence didn’t lead to a breakthrough, the case remained open.
Now, 30 years later, the force has reopened the file, spurred by cutting-edge forensic science and familial DNA profiling, hoping to finally identify her family and the person responsible.
Detective’s Plea: “Someone Knows — Do the Right Thing”
“This is a horrific case of a newborn baby girl being killed and discarded in a lake. April would be 30 years old now – who knows what she could have contributed to society. But someone ended her life in the most unimaginable way.
I have no doubt someone out there knows something. Three decades on, now is the time to do the right thing and come forward, so we can get justice for April.
Advances in forensic science, especially familial DNA, give us a better chance than ever to identify her parents. We urge the mother of April to come forward rather than us having to find you.”
— Detective Inspector Lee Neiles, Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate
How You Can Help Bring Justice for Baby April
- Call Kent Police on 01622 652006
- Give anonymous tips to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111
- Submit info online via the Kent Police Online Portal
Why This Cold Case Still Hits Home
Three decades on, Baby April’s death remains a haunting mystery. Police vow to keep pressing until justice is served and closure is found. The hope is that those carrying guilt, secrets, or even doubts will now step forward.
As Detective Neiles said, this case is about honouring a life so cruelly cut short. With forensic tech advancing fast, Kent Police are determined to uncover the truth and finally give Baby April the justice she deserves.
