Crime scene investigators have been pictured probing a Bishop Auckland property after the skeleton of a baby was uncovered beneath the floorboards.
Officers were called to a property on Fore Bondgate after renovation crews discovered what appears to be human remains beneath the floorboards of an upstairs room.
Forensic analysts have been drafted in to examine the skeleton to help determine its age and how long it has been in the current location.
Now, new pictures from the scene have shown several white-suited investigators entering a property wearing blue gloves and masks.
Read our stories on this incident so far:
At least three police vehicles remain along the street - with other officers standing guard outside the property and beside a force van.
CSI teams were also spotted placing brown evidence bags into the back of a van, with one of the investigators seen carrying several plastic evidence wallets.
Residents have told of their shock after the investigation was launched on Monday, with one person describing the situation as "like something from a TV show".
Bishop Auckland Councillor Sam Zair also said: "I think everyone is shocked. When stuff like this happens, let alone on your doorstep... it's an absolutely tragic circumstance.
"I am absolutely dumbfounded at what I have been told and we have just got to let the police get on with their job until things get clearer."
Police statement in full
A Durham Constabulary spokesperson said: "Contractors working on a property renovation in Bishop Auckland have discovered what appears to be human remains.
"The skeleton of a baby was found beneath floorboards in an upstairs room at an address in Fore Bondgate at approximately 11.15am on Monday.
"The body is being recovered from the building this afternoon and police teams will then carry out a full search of the property.
"Forensic analysts, including an expert anthropologist, have been brought in to examine the skeleton to help determine its age and how long it has been in the current location.
"A post mortem examination and CT scan are scheduled for later this week to determine the cause of death.
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"Detectives from Durham Constabulary have also begun tracing previous residents of the property."
Detective Chief Inspector Mel Sutherland, from Durham Constabulary, said: “Our investigations are at an early stage.
“Obviously, this is a sensitive enquiry and at this point we remain open-minded as to the circumstances surrounding the death”.
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