TRIBUTES have come pouring in following the “tragic” and “devastating” death of a baby in Colchester. 

Essex Police officers were called to the scene in Buffett Way on Sunday evening by paramedics after concerns were raised for the welfare of a baby.

Despite the efforts of paramedics and doctors, the child died at hospital in the early hours of yesterday morning.

Two people, a man and a woman, were subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder, Essex Police confirmed to The Gazette.

Gazette: Incident - police were on the scene in Buffett Way yesterdayIncident - police were on the scene in Buffett Way yesterday (Image: Newsquest)

Residents and councillors alike have since come together to pay their respects after the incident in Greenstead.

Showkat Ganie, a father who lives in Buffett Way, was shocked following the news.

Speaking to the Gazette, he said: “I am really shocked, the death of a baby... they are innocent.

“I don’t know why these things happen, I’m a father myself. I am really shocked.”

Keeley, a mother of two who also lives down the road, was similarly taken aback by the tragic incident.

She said: “I don’t know what to say, it is awful.

“I have two young children myself. “This is devastating.”

Artom, another resident who lives on Avon Way, added: "It's horrendous. 

"You can't think that things like this happen. 

"It is scary, nobody pays attention until something happens."

Greenstead ward councillor Tim Young also sent his thoughts to those affected, describing the incident as “an absolute tragedy”.

Gazette: Sad - Greenstead councillor Tim YoungSad - Greenstead councillor Tim Young (Image: Steve Brading)

“We must support the police and other agencies as they try to discover what happened,” he said.

“Our hearts go out to all those affected by this terrible incident.A full statement from an Essex Police spokesman said: “We are investigating the unexpected death of a baby at an address in Colchester.

“Officers were called by paramedics to an address in Buffett Way at about 10.25pm on Sunday, May 12, with concerns for the welfare of a baby.

“Sadly, despite the best efforts of paramedics and doctors, the child died at hospital in the early hours of Monday, May 13.

“We have arrested two people, a man and a woman, in connection with the incident.

“Our officers will be at the address in Buffett Way for several hours while they carry out their enquiries.”