A murder investigation has been launched after the body of an infant was found burnt in bushes near the braai area at Brighton Beach on The Bluff in Durban on Wednesday, 21 January 2026.

Emergency services responded after a passer-by discovered the infant while walking in the area and alerted authorities. Paramedics arrived with police shortly after 14:00. The infant had already died and was declared deceased at the scene.

An ALS Paramedics spokesperson described the discovery as horrific and said the infant had suffered extensive injuries, including severe burns. The spokesperson said the baby was found in bushes near the beach’s braai area, a spot that is usually used by families and day visitors.

Discovery Near a Busy Public Space

Brighton Beach is a well-known public area on The Bluff and the location where the infant was found is close to facilities people use for outings and gatherings. The infant’s body was located in vegetation near the braai area, raising concerns about safety in a place many residents see as a family-friendly space.

Police were on scene as paramedics assessed the infant and confirmed there was nothing more that could be done. The area was treated as an active investigation site while initial enquiries got under way.

What Authorities Have Confirmed

Police and emergency services have confirmed the infant was found on Wednesday afternoon and that the child was already deceased when responders arrived. The infant’s injuries included burns and the death is being investigated as a murder case.

At this stage, the circumstances that led to the infant’s death remain unclear. No official cause of death has been released.

Investigation Under Way

Police are now working to establish what happened, when the infant was left at the scene and who may be responsible. The infant’s identity has not been made public and no arrests have been announced.

Anyone with information linked to the incident has been urged to contact local law enforcement.