A 64-year-old woman has been charged with manslaughter following the death of a five-year-old boy at Westshore Beach in Napier earlier this year.
The boy went missing in the Westshore area sometime between 6pm and 8.30pm on February 5.
At about 8.30pm, emergency services were called to Westshore Beach regarding reports of a body in the water.
The body of a five-year-old boy was found and recovered at about 1.30am.
Police confirmed today that an extensive investigation into the boy’s death had resulted in the woman being charged with manslaughter.
She appeared in Napier District Court today and is due to reappear on October 16.
Detective Sergeant Kate Hyde says the investigation was treated with
sensitivity and the decision to lay charges wasn’t taken lightly.
“This was a tragic event for our community, and our thoughts are with the
young boy’s family at this troubling and difficult time.”
Police said they were unable to comment further as the case was now before the court.
