French police find remains of five newborns in southeastern home, launch murder probe

French police have launched a murder investigation after the remains of five newborns were discovered in cardboard boxes at a couple’s flat in southeastern France. The bodies were uncovered when the woman’s partner searched the apartment following the home birth of a healthy baby, prompting hospital staff to notify prosecutors.

Investigators say the newborns were found in separate boxes, suggesting a deliberate concealment. The discovery came after the partner’s search, which led medical personnel to alert authorities. Prosecutors are now examining the circumstances surrounding the deaths and the couple’s recent home birth.

The case is being treated as a homicide investigation, with police working to determine how and when the infants died and why their remains were hidden. The investigation remains ongoing.