Woman arrested over death of former West Bromwich Albion & Aston Villa manager's baby grandson

Police are investigating a woman following the tragic death of former Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City manager Steve Bruce's four-month-old grandson Madison earlier this year.

Madison Smith died at his home in Bowdon on October 18, where he lived with the manager's daughter Amy and ex-Millwall striker Matt Smith.

Now, following the launch of a police probe, a woman in her 40s is being investigated on suspicion of neglect and has been bailed.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: "At approximately 7:10am on Friday 18 October 2024 officers responded to a concern for welfare in Trafford and sadly found a baby deceased.

"A woman in her 40s was arrested on suspicion of child neglect and has been bailed as we continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this death."

Following the death, a Noth West Ambulance spokesperson said: "We attended a private address in Bowdon, on 18th October 2024 following a 999 call at 07:07.

"One patient was taken to hospital. Two ambulances, a response vehicle, and an advanced paramedic attended the incident."

The tragic death led to the Blackpool boss taking a temporary step away from managing, with Bruce missing the club's league one match against Barnsley in October.

The Manchester United icon released a statement thanking fans for their support in the days following Madison's death.

The statement read: "On Tuesday we laid my grandson Madison to rest. It’s been the worst time of my family’s entire lives and is something no family should have to endure.

“I’d like to take this opportunity on behalf of all the family to thank everyone for the tributes and messages from inside and outside the footballing world."

Bruce has since returned to managing with a game against his former side, Gillingham, in the FA Cup.