Brisbane, Australia CNN —The discovery of an umbilical cord and placenta in muddy mangroves near an Australian river has sparked a major police search for a mother and baby amid fears for their health. I am deeply concerned for the safety and the mental health of the mother and also for the safety of her baby,” she said. A forensic pathologist was examining the placenta and cord as a priority, McDonald said, which could determine the gender of the baby. How long it was down by the river is unknown. “That’s why we’re asking anyone with information to please help us with this investigation because we do have extreme concern for a mother and her baby.

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Persons: Christine McDonald, ”, McDonald, “ Organizations: Australia CNN, New South Wales police, Police Locations: Brisbane, Australia, Sydney, New South Wales