Woman arrested over death of Steve Bruce's four-month old grandson Madison as police issue statement

Police have issued a statement confirming a woman has been arrested amid an ongoing investigation into the death of Steve Bruce's four-month old grandson.

Madison Smith passed away after being discovered unresponsive at the family home where he lived with Bruce's daughter Amy and her husband - former Leeds United, Fulham and Millwall footballer Matt Smith.

The Sun report that the couple hired a night nanny to help look after their son.

At around 7am on October 18, Smith checked on the baby boy and found him unresponsive before calling emergency services.

A North 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."

Greater Manchester Police have now confirmed a woman in her forties has been arrested on suspicion of neglect and bailed pending further investigations.

A Police spokesperson told The Sun: “We can confirm an investigation is ongoing and a woman in her 40s was arrested on suspicion of child neglect.

"She was questioned and released on bail pending further inquiries.”

Officers are understood to be examining the woman's phone as part of their investigation.

Madison's funeral was held on October 29 and two days later, former Newcastle boss Bruce issued a statement thanking the football world for its support after the devastating news.

"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," Bruce said in a statement released on social media.

"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."

Amy's brother Alex Bruce, who stepped back from his coaching role at Salford City in October, added: "I'd also like to thank everyone for the well wishes and messages.

"There are no words to describe how painful last two weeks have been for us all especially Matt and Amy. Madison was the perfect little boy and the most perfect nephew, life will never be the same without him."

Former Sunderland, Aston Villa and Newcastle manager Bruce is now in charge of League One side Blackpool.

He stepped away from first-team duties after the death of his grandson but has since returned to the dugout.

Last month, Bruce thanks the club and its fans for their support following the death of Madison.

"I've said before, the unbelievable support, that not just myself but all the family received, has been quite astonishing really," he said.

"I wish I could thank each and every one of them individually. I thank them enormously for what they've dished out to the family."