A murder investigation is actively underway in Staffordshire after two young children were tragically found dead at a house on Sunday, October 12. The harrowing discovery on Corporation Street in Stafford led to the immediate arrest of a 43-year-old woman, who is currently being questioned by detectives on suspicion of murder.

The victims have been identified by Staffordshire Police as two-year-old Meraj Ul Zahra and three-year-old Abdul Momin Alfaateh. Both children, a girl and a boy, were found unresponsive and with injuries at the property. Despite the rapid response of emergency services, including two ambulances and two paramedic officers dispatched to the scene just after 7:25 am, they were sadly pronounced dead.

The incident has caused profound shock and distress within the local community. Neighbours recounted waking to the sound of sirens and observing extensive police activity. One resident claimed to have witnessed a surviving child being carried to a police car by officers, as the distraught father was reportedly too overwhelmed to do so himself. Forensic officers were seen working in the front yard of the terraced property, which was taped off by police, with the cordon extending to the rear of the house and an access lane.

Detective Inspector Kirsty Oldfield from Staffordshire Police addressed the public, stating, "We are working hard to understand more about what happened leading up to these two children tragically losing their lives." She urged the public to refrain from speculation, emphasizing the distress it causes to family and friends and the potential to hinder enquiries. Detective Inspector Oldfield also assured the community that there is no wider threat to the public.

Due to previous police contact regarding the incident, a referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). The next-of-kin have been informed of the tragedy and are receiving support during this incredibly difficult time. The police continue to appeal for anyone with information to come forward, asking them to contact 101 or use the Live Chat on the Staffordshire Police website, quoting incident number 147 of 12 October. Anonymous reports can be made via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.