Police in Victoria say they are concerned for the welfare of the mother of a newborn baby who was found deceased Wednesday night.

B.C. Children's Minister Mitzi Dean said the discovery of the deceased child was "a terrible tragedy."

"It's a very sad story for a local family. We want all children and youth to be cared for safely and their family, so this is terribly heartbreaking news. My heart goes out to anybody involved with the family," Dean said in the legislature.

The baby was found in a parking lot, and it is believed that the baby was recently born, possibly in the area.

Investigators are concerned for the welfare of the mother who may need medical care and support.

The Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit (VIIMCU) has assumed conduct of this investigation.