A MUM ran into a street shouting “he can’t breathe” after a young boy was discovered dead inside his home, horrified neighbours claim.
Police were scrambled to the house in Oldham at around 6.20pm on New Year’s Eve following reports of an “incident”.
The boy, believed to be aged five, was declared dead at the scene as a woman in her 30s was detained under the Mental Health Act.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the case will be referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to “previous contact”.
Neighbours revealed how a local frantically tried to save the boy as the tragedy unfolded.
The boy’s dad, who is understood to be separated from the mum, was also said to be “absolutely broken”.
One neighbour told The Sun Online: “The boy’s mum came out into the street and shouted: ‘He can’t breathe’.
“A woman, who lives a few doors away, heard what was going on and went into the house.
“She saw the boy slumped on the sofa and performed CPR on him.
“But it was too late and he couldn’t be saved.”
The neighbour continued: “He was a beautiful little boy.
Another neighbour said she was “devastated” by the boy’s death.
Floral tributes and a small teddy have now been left at the scene for the tragic youngster.
A note read: “It’s a cruel world – RIP Little One.”
Police confirmed an investigation is underway but have not released any more details.
Detective Superintendent Chris Packer said: “Our thoughts are with the child’s loved ones at this heartbreaking time. Specialist officers will offer them support.
“Our investigation is in the early stages and we’d ask anyone with information to contact us or Crimestoppers immediately.
“Due to previous police contact, this incident has been referred to our Professional Standards Branch and will be referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
“This sad news is bound to cause distress in the community but I would like to offer reassurance that we are doing everything we can to establish the circumstances.”
Anyone with information can call police on 0161 856 3656 quoting
incident 2284 of 31/12/21.
