In a heart-wrenching incident on December 3rd, a 34-year-old woman and her three-week-old infant were discovered lifeless at the base of a Ghim Moh Housing Board block. This unfortunate event marks the second such case within a month, casting a shadow over the community.
Uncovering the Tragedy
The authorities were alerted around 11.15 am, responding promptly to the distressing scene at Block 29 Ghim Moh Link. A Singapore Civil Defence Force paramedic, upon arrival, pronounced the woman and baby dead. Initial reports from Chinese-language news outlet Lianhe Zaobao confirm the victims as a mother and her son.
Image from The Straits Times/ Lianhe Zaobao
Eyewitness Account
Mr. Chen, a witness passing by the HDB block, played a crucial role in alerting the police about the woman and baby found dead. The grim discovery prompted an immediate response, with blue tents and law enforcement presence becoming a solemn backdrop to the unfolding tragedy.
Community Grief
As the news spread, grieving relatives gathered at the scene where woman and baby found dead, some covering their faces, others shedding tears. The somber atmosphere echoed a similar incident just a month prior, underscoring the urgency of addressing mental health challenges within the community.
Investigative Updates
Despite the alarming nature of the incident, preliminary investigations by the police do not point towards foul play. The authorities are diligently pursuing further inquiries to unravel the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event.
Repeat Tragedy
Regrettably, this incident mirrors another occurrence in Eunos on November 5th, where a 33-year-old woman and her one-year-old child were found dead at the foot of an HDB block. The proximity of these events emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and support for mental well-being.
Reaching Out for Support
In the wake of these distressing incidents, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of mental health support. Various helplines and counseling services are available to provide assistance to those in need:
- Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222 (24 hours)
- Samaritans of Singapore: 1800-221-4444 (24 hours) /1-767 (24 hours)
- Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
- Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
- Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788
- Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1
- Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10 am to 6 pm)
- Aware’s Sexual Assault Care Centre: 6779-0282 (weekdays, 10 am to 6 pm)
Counseling Services
- TOUCHline (Counseling): 1800-377-2252
- TOUCH Care Line (for seniors, caregivers): 6804-6555
- Care Corner Counseling Centre: 6353-1180
- Counseling and Care Centre: 6536-6366
Online Resources
- Mindline.sg
- eC2.sg
- Tinkle Friend
- Chat.Mentalhealth.sg
- Carey.Carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25)
- Limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)
As the community grapples with the profound sadness of these incidents, it is imperative to unite in support, fostering an environment where mental health challenges can be addressed openly and compassionately. Let these tragedies serve as a call to action for increased awareness, understanding, and proactive measures to protect the well-being of our community members.
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