A MOTHER is to face trial for murder after her 18-day-old daughter tragically died in a fall from a central London property.
Key Takeaways
- A 43-year-old woman, Zahira Byjaouane, has been charged with the murder of her 18-day-old daughter.
- The infant tragically died after falling from a residential property on Horseferry Road in Westminster, central London.
- Police were called to the scene on Saturday morning and the baby was pronounced dead in hospital.
- Byjaouane was arrested at the scene and has since appeared in court, with her case sent to the Old Bailey.
- Detectives believe the incident occurred within a domestic context.
Summary Lead
A 43-year-old woman, Zahira Byjaouane, has been charged with murder following the death of her 18-day-old daughter, who fell from a residential property in Westminster, central London, on Saturday morning, March 14, 2026. Police were called to Horseferry Road and the infant was taken to hospital where she was pronounced dead. Byjaouane was arrested at the scene and has been remanded in custody, with her case now proceeding to the Old Bailey.
The Deep Dive
Tragedy Unfolds on Horseferry Road
The devastating incident occurred on Saturday morning, March 14, 2026, when Metropolitan Police officers responded to reports that a baby had fallen from a height at a residential property on Horseferry Road in Westminster. Despite being rushed to a major trauma centre, the 18-day-old baby girl was tragically pronounced dead.
Arrest and Investigation
At the scene, a 43-year-old woman, identified as Zahira Byjaouane, was arrested on suspicion of murder and taken into police custody. Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell, leading the investigation, stated that the force believes the incident occurred within a domestic context and appealed for anyone with information to come forward. “Our thoughts today are with the baby’s family,” DCI Foxwell said. “The death of an infant is always an extremely tragic occurrence, and officers are making urgent inquiries around the circumstances.”
Legal Proceedings
Byjaouane appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, March 16, 2026, confirming her name, date of birth, and address. She did not enter a plea, and her case was deemed too serious for the magistrates’ court, thus being sent to the Old Bailey. She is due to appear at the Central Criminal Court on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Byjaouane remains in custody, as bail does not arise in this court due to the nature of the allegations.
The Scene
A police cordon was in place on Great Peter Street, near Horseferry Road, with forensic investigators seen working at a third-floor flat in the Peabody Estate. Flowers and a toy animal were later left near the building after the police cordon was lifted.
FAQ: People Also Ask
What is the legal age of a baby that is considered an infant?
Generally, an infant is a child under the age of one year. However, legal definitions can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific context.
What are the different types of homicide charges?
Homicide charges can range from murder (premeditated killing) to manslaughter (unlawful killing without malice aforethought). Specific charges and their definitions vary by legal jurisdiction.
What is the role of a Detective Chief Inspector?
A Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) is a senior rank within the police service, responsible for leading investigations into serious crimes and managing detective teams.
