An investigation has begun after a dead infant was found in a “mummified condition” near a Hamilton Parish graveyard.

The grounds of Holy Trinity Church, on Trinity Church Road, were quickly secured by police after the incident was reported at 11.20am yesterday.

Officers focused on an area of undergrowth just over a wall in the northwest corner of the property, about 70ft from the roadway.

The child’s body appeared to have a medical band on one wrist. Efforts are being made to determine the cause of the youngster’s death and how the body ended up at the location next to the graveyard.

Late yesterday police said the infant’s death did not appear to be suspicious.

The body was first spotted by a landscaper working in the area who raised the alarm.

Assistant Commissioner Antoine Daniels said: “A medical practitioner attended the scene and confirmed that the body appeared to be of an infant male.

“A forensic examination was conducted of the scene and a comprehensive search made of the immediate area seeking any additional information that could assist police officers with their initial investigations.

“I wish to reassure the Bermuda community that we are conducting enquiries into the discovery of the baby remains found in Hamilton Parish; however based on the information gathered thus far this death does not appear to be suspicious.

“In recent weeks there has been extensive maintenance being carried out at this particular grave site resulting in a number of tombs being refurbished. The baby was found in a mummified condition, fully disinterred and appears to have a medical band of some type around his wrist.”

Officers from the Forensic Support Unit and Criminal Investigation Unit have begun an investigation.

Mr Daniels said police are in the process of speaking to contractors who conducted renovations at the grave site, members of the various churches linked to the grave site, and officials at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital

“An autopsy will be conducted in the near future in an effort to ascertain the cause of death,” he added.

“Police are interested in speaking with anyone who has any knowledge of this incident and in particular anyone who has any knowledge regarding the medical treatment and/or burial of an infant in recent months.”

Anyone who can assist is asked to contact Inspector Mark Clarke of the Vulnerable Persons Unit on 295-0011.