Woman accused of murdering baby ‘Callum’ found in Warrington woodland in 1998

A woman has been charged with murder over the 1998 death of a baby.

Baby ‘Callum’ was found 26 years ago in a woodland in Warrington.

Police arrested a Liverpool man and woman in July 2023 in connection with the incident and they were subsequently released on bail.

The 54-year-old woman, Joanne Sharkey, was arrested again on Monday and charged with murder.

She was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Warrington Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Detective Inspector Hannah Friend said: “I know this is an extremely emotional case that has attracted a lot of attention over the past 26 years, but I ask people not to speculate.”

“Criminal proceedings have now been opened against Joanne Sharkey and she is entitled to a fair trial.

“It is extremely important that there should be no online reporting, commentary or information sharing that could harm these proceedings in any way.”

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A man arrested in connection with the investigation has been released without charge.

Detectives named the baby Callum after the Callan area of ​​Warrington where he was found dead because he could not be identified.

Local arrangements were made for his burial and burial, and he was buried a few months later in Warrington Cemetery.

The tombstone, which was built with funds raised by local residents, is inscribed: “Baby Callum, God’s precious child. Rested in peace 27 July 1998. With the love of the people of Warrington.”