A two-year-old girl died in hospital after officers were called to a house in Thornaby, North Yorkshire, following concerns for her welfare, Cleveland Police said on Sunday.
Police said the child was taken to hospital after officers attended a property on Hartington Close at about 4.20 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, and later died. Her death is being treated as "unexplained" and detectives have launched an investigation.
A 25-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man have been arrested in connection with the child's death and are being questioned, the force said. Officers remained in the street on Sunday evening as inquiries continued and went door to door in the area as part of the investigation.
A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: "Officers were called to Hartington Close in Thornaby at around 4.20pm on Saturday 13th September following concerns for the welfare of a two-year-old child. The child was taken to hospital where she very sadly passed away. Her death is currently being treated as unexplained and detectives have launched an investigation. Our thoughts are with the family of the child during this very difficult time. A 25-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man have been arrested in connection with the child's death and they are being questioned. Enquiries are ongoing."
A forensic team was seen at the property taking interior and exterior photographs, and officers urged the public not to speculate or name individuals online while inquiries are under way. Local media reported the initial attendance at the house was prompted by welfare concerns.
Detectives have taken carriage of the case and continue to gather evidence and speak to potential witnesses. Police appeals for information in similar inquiries typically request anyone with relevant footage or knowledge to contact Cleveland Police to assist with the investigation.
No further details about the circumstances of the child's death or the condition of those arrested have been released. The force asked for privacy for the family while inquiries continue and confirmed that a full investigation is under way to establish the cause of death.