A man will face court today charged over the alleged murder of a baby in his care in the Hunter region at the weekend.
Police and emergency services were called to a home on Fairfield Avenue, New Lambton, just after 4.30am on Saturday (9 February 2019), following reports a six-month-old boy had gone into cardiac arrest.
The child was taken to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition. Despite the efforts of hospital staff, the boy died late on Sunday (10 February 2019).
Detectives from the Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad and Newcastle City Police District, assisted by the Homicide Squad, established Strike Force Wandearah to investigate the circumstances surrounding the child's death.
A post mortem examination determined the child died as a result of a traumatic head injury.
Following extensive inquiries, police arrested a 28-year-old man at Budgewoi about 12.20pm yesterday (Wednesday 13 February 2019).
He was taken to Wyong Police Station, where he was charged with murder and reckless grievous bodily harm.
The New Lambton man was refused bail to appear at Wyong Local Court today (Thursday 14 February 2019).
Investigations are continuing.
The Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad is comprised of detectives who are specially trained to investigate matters against children and adults, including sexual assault, serious physical abuse, and extreme cases of neglect.
Anyone with concerns about suspected child abuse or exploitation should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
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