Couple Charged Following Death Of Two-Year-Old Child In Riverina

A man and a woman have been charged in court today in connection with the tragic death of a two-year-old child in the State’s Riverina region.

The incident unfolded on Friday, December 1, 2023, when the toddler was rushed to Griffith Base Hospital with severe head injuries. 

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Despite efforts to save his life, he was airlifted to Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, where he tragically passed away on Sunday, December 3, 2023.

Officers attached to the Murrumbidgee Police District established Strike Force Burtundy to examine the circumstances surrounding the child’s death thoroughly.

Following extensive inquiries, on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, just before 11am, local police, in collaboration with Murrumbidgee Child Abuse Squad officers, attended a property in the Griffith area. 

They apprehended a 21-year-old woman and a 33-year-old man in connection with the tragic incident.

Both individuals were subsequently transported to Griffith Police Station, where they were formally charged. 

The charges include manslaughter (Domestic Violence) for both parties. Additionally, the woman faces an additional charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm (Domestic Violence) related to an alleged assault on a two-month-old baby in November 2023.

The couple was refused bail and scheduled to appear before Griffith Local Court today, Thursday, March 4, 2024.

Authorities urge anyone with information relevant to the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation. 

Information can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. 

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