30 Dec 2008

Death of baby investigated

3:11 pm on 30 December 2008

Police in Upper Hutt are investigating the death of an eight-month-old baby girl who died on Christmas Day. She was in the care of Child, Youth & Family at the time.

Inspector Mike Hill says the police are conducting enquiries on behalf of the Coroner to determine the circumstances that led to her death. He says this is usual practice in cases where a child dies when in the care of Child, Youth & Family.

A post mortem was held on Boxing Day. No further details will be issued until 5 January.

Child, Youth & Family says the death is heartbreaking. Acting deputy chief executive Marama Wiki says support is being provided to the baby's family and caregivers.