Two year-old James Joseph Ruhe Lawrence - known as JJ - of Takitimu St, Orakei, died a violent death on Monday morning, before ambulance services arrived. He was buried in Northland yesterday.
Police investigating JJ's homicide say he suffered blunt force trauma to the abdomen which caused severe damage to his internal organs.
Detective Inspector Scott Beard says several people associated with JJ have been spoken to over the past few days.
"Many of these people have co-operated fully with us but some accounts of what happened to two year-old JJ are not consistent with what we know from the post-mortem results.
"At the time of the incident in JJ's home, we understand there were four adults and three children - including JJ - present. We need the adults to tell us all they know about what happened to JJ - for his and his wider family's sakes."
The investigation into JJ's death continues and anyone with information that might or could assist should consult their conscience and call Operation Avalon on 09 524 1925 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Noreen Hegarty
Auckland City Police Communications Manager
Ph 09 302 6947 or 0274-951-589
