Four charged with murder after newborn found stabbed to death in Sheffield
Two men and two women have appeared in court charged with murdering a newborn baby girl who was found stabbed to death at a house in Sheffield.
The infant, referred to in court as Baby S, was discovered at a property in Holywell Heights, in the Wincobank area, on Sunday after police were called to reports of concern for her safety.
The defendants — Slovakian nationals Andrea Skopova, 20, formerly of Robey Street, Sheffield; Peter Horvath, 19; Nina Horvathova, 37; and Peter Horvath, 38, both of Holywell Heights — appeared before Sheffield Magistrates’ Court. They face charges of murder, causing or allowing the death of a child, and perverting the course of justice by allegedly taking steps to conceal the killing.
A fifth person, a 15-year-old girl who cannot be named for legal reasons, was also in court charged with perverting the course of justice. All five were remanded in custody and are due to appear at Sheffield Crown Court on Thursday.
Earlier this week, police confirmed that two other women, aged 26 and 37, arrested on suspicion of murder, have been released on bail while inquiries continue.
The case has deeply unsettled the local community, where bouquets of flowers and soft toys have been left outside the house where the baby was found.
Detective Chief Inspector Tom Woodward, speaking before the hearing, described the court appearance as a significant step in the investigation. “This is a significant step in our investigation into the tragic circumstances that resulted in the death of this baby girl,” he said.
Woodward thanked residents for their support as officers work through what he called an intricate investigation. He urged the public not to speculate or post information online while the legal process runs its course. “Protecting the integrity of the criminal justice process is crucial to us securing justice for this little girl,” he added.
Police said officers will remain in the Holywell Heights area carrying out further inquiries.