UK priest arrested over death of daughter’s baby

A priest in United Kingdom, Rev Jim Percival, and his daughter, Ruth Percival, have been arrested in connection to the death of Ruth's baby.

Police were called to the residence in Lancashire village of Freckleton a week ago after a report of a child stillborn.

In the days following and after inquiries into the baby’s death, police began treating the baby's death as suspicious and a post-mortem examination was held. Mr Percival is said to have disappeared for some days, leaving a note with parishioners which set out instructions for his funeral, including readings and hymns.

After turning up again at their house, 64-year-old Rev Jim Percival was then arrested alongside his 28-year-daughter on the morning of Tuesday, December 2. It was understood Mr Percival and his daughter were also being held on suspicion of conspiracy to conceal the child’s birth, plus another sexual offence.

A postmortem examination has been carried out and the cause of the baby’s death is yet to be confirmed. A paternity test will also be carried out to ascertain the father of the baby.

The 65-year-old wife of the vicar, Susan, has also been arrested by the police