05/06/2026
A parent has issued a warning to others after a disturbing incident at Houndwell Park Playground this afternoon, during which a woman allegedly followed and confronted her and her young child.
The incident occurred at around 3:30pm, when the mother noticed a woman watching her 3½‑year‑old daughter “very closely” while she played.
Sensing something was wrong, she moved her child away from the play area, but said the woman continued to follow them at close distance.Family members who were present initially believed the woman might have been interested in their shopping bags, but it soon became clear that the child was the focus of her attention.
According to the mother, the woman continued to follow them as they left the play equipment, prompting fears for their safety.
When the mother confronted her, the woman allegedly became aggressive, shouting that the child had been “stolen” from her and claiming the girl was actually her own.
The woman reportedly moved towards the pair while shouting abuse, causing the mother to panic and call the police.
The woman fled as soon as she realised police were being contacted.Officers arrived within minutes and located the woman nearby after receiving a description and direction of travel.
Police later informed the mother that the woman was experiencing mental health difficulties and that no further action would be taken. She was taken back to her home, believed to be around 15 minutes from the playground.
The mother said she respects those who struggle with mental illness but described the situation as “terrifying” and expressed concern that individuals in crisis should receive appropriate support and supervision to ensure the safety of both themselves and the public.
She added that the incident has left her anxious about returning to the playground and shared her account as a warning to other parents to remain vigilant and trust their instincts.
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