A 43-year-vintage woman has been charged with the murder of her 18-day-old daughter in Westminster, central London, following an investigation into the infant’s death after a fall from a height. Zahira Byjaouane, of Horseferry Road, was arrested on Saturday and formally charged on Sunday, police confirmed. The case has prompted an outpouring of grief and a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The Metropolitan Police were initially called to Horseferry Road at approximately 7:30 GMT on Saturday morning, responding to reports that a baby had fallen from a residential property, according to the BBC report. Emergency services attended the scene, and the newborn was immediately transported to a major trauma centre, but sadly, she was later pronounced dead. The incident occurred at a property on Horseferry Road, near the Peabody Estate.
Forensic officers conducted a thorough investigation at a third-floor flat within the Peabody Estate on Saturday evening, maintaining a police cordon around the area. Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell stated on Saturday, “The death of an infant is always an extremely tragic occurrence, and officers are making urgent inquiries around the circumstances.” The Guardian reported that flowers and a toy animal were left near the building on Sunday morning after the cordon was lifted, serving as a poignant tribute to the baby.
Byjaouane has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, March 16, 2026. The Mirror detailed the scene, noting the presence of forensic investigators and a closed-off section of Great Peter Street during the initial investigation.
Investigation Focuses on Domestic Context
Authorities are currently investigating the incident as occurring within a domestic context, while the specifics remain under investigation. DCI Foxwell emphasized that police are appealing for anyone with information related to the case to come forward. The investigation is being led by detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command. The focus remains on establishing the full sequence of events leading to the infant’s death.
The case has drawn attention to the issue of infant mortality and the support systems available to new mothers. While the investigation is ongoing, it underscores the importance of addressing potential risk factors and providing adequate resources for families. The Metropolitan Police have not released further details regarding the circumstances of the fall, citing the ongoing investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Byjaouane’s appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday will mark the beginning of the legal process. The court will determine whether to grant bail or continue her remand in custody. The prosecution will present evidence, and the defense will have the opportunity to respond. If the case proceeds to trial, it will likely involve forensic evidence, witness testimony, and a detailed examination of the events leading up to the baby’s death.
The investigation is ongoing, and police are continuing to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact them as soon as possible. The outcome of the court proceedings will be closely watched, as it will determine the legal consequences for Byjaouane and provide a measure of justice for the victim.
The death of an 18-day-old infant is a deeply tragic event, and the investigation will aim to establish the full facts of the case. The next confirmed checkpoint will be Byjaouane’s court appearance on Monday, where further details about the legal proceedings are expected to emerge.
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