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Couple left 'devastated' after baby ashes stolen in burglary

Police believe the burglars mistook the box for a jewellery box

Maria Tadeo
Friday 28 March 2014 12:56 GMT
(Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

A couple have spoken of their heartbreak after their stillborn baby's ashes were stolen in a burglary, police said.

The small box marked with the baby's name, Oliver Ryan McElliggot, and the date of his death, 19 July 2011, was stolen from the family's home in Highgate, North London, on 6 February.

Police believe the burglars mistook the box for a jewellery box.

Amanda Ryan, 36, and her partner, Daniel McElligott, who live with their 12-year daughter, had their laptops, mobile phones and jewellery stolen from the family home.

DC Ursula Surgenor said: "The victims have been left devastated by the loss of their baby's ashes and we are appealing for any information or assistance from members of the public to bring about its return and to catch those responsible.

"The burglary took place between 1500hrs and 1700hrs on Thursday 6 February and we would like to hear from anyone who may have noticed anything or seen anyone acting suspiciously during this time, at this location. We would also like to hear from anyone who may have come across or seen a box matching the description to contact us."

Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111

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