Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, June 10, 2024
A tragic incident has unfolded in Waikato as police have commenced a homicide investigation following the death of a 10-month-old baby boy.
The child was brought unconscious to Te Kuiti Hospital on Saturday, June 8, 2024 in the afternoon, prompting hospital staff to alert the authorities.
Despite the valiant efforts of the medical team, the baby could not be resuscitated.
Non Accidental injuries
Preliminary examinations have revealed that the infant suffered from severe, violent, blunt-force trauma. Detective Inspector Graham Pitkethley has confirmed that these injuries appear to be non-accidental.
“The full extent of his injuries will be determined by a post-mortem, but the results will not be known for some time,” said Detective Inspector Pitkethley. “At this stage, we are not releasing specific details of the injuries.”
The investigation is in its early stages, and detectives face a significant amount of work as they gather evidence and piece together the events leading to this tragedy. Police have been in communication with the baby’s family, including his parents, who are cooperating with the investigation.
Investigation underway
As part of the ongoing inquiry, officers will conduct a thorough scene examination at a Te Kuiti address, which has been under police guard since the incident was reported.
Residents of Te Kuiti can expect to see an increased police presence in the area as officers continue to make enquiries.
“The death of any child is a shock to the community, and we know many in Te Kuiti will be affected by this,” Detective Inspector Pitkethley acknowledged. “We ask for the public’s cooperation and understanding during this difficult time.”
The Waitomo District mayor, John Robertson has called the “violent” death of a baby a tragedy for the whole community and is urging those with information to come forward. Mr Robertson said the death was a tragedy and would shake his small community.
Information requested
Authorities are urging anyone with information that could aid the investigation to come forward. “The public can help by talking with us; we need to hear from anyone who has information that could help the investigation,” he emphasised.
Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the police via 105, referencing the file number 240608/8263.
This devastating event has left the Te Kuiti community in mourning, and the police has issued a statement stating that they are committed to uncover the truth behind the baby’s untimely death.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
