Canterbury Police are now able to name the boy who died in hospital this morning (29 May 2015). He was five year old Leon Michael leFleming Jayet-Cole from Christchurch.
Canterbury Police and Victim Support are working with his immediate family who are extremely upset to lose their child in such terrible circumstances. The school he attended is providing support to staff and students.
“We are focussing our investigation around Leon’s activities throughout the day on Wednesday (27 May 2015) prior to his admission to Christchurch Hospital. Police have already spoken to members of his family and staff from the school he attends who have all been cooperating with Police. We will finish speaking to the remaining people who came into contact with him over the next few days. Leon was in the presence of his family and teachers throughout the day on Wednesday” says Detective Senior Sergeant Scott Anderson.
The 14 strong investigative team led by Canterbury Police CIB have many years of experience between them investigating a range of homicides and serious assaults. A post mortem is being carried out this afternoon.
Detective Senior Sergeant Anderson says “We understand the public are interested in why a ‘normal’ day ended so tragically for Leon. Unfortunately Canterbury Police are unable to provide any further information or specific details of this ongoing homicide investigation into how Leon sustained his injuries.”
Due to the operational demands of the investigation Canterbury Police does not have anyone available to undertake media interviews at this time.
Further information will be provided in the coming week as and when appropriate to the stage of the investigation.
No update on the investigation will be made over the long weekend.
Note: media enquiries should be referred to Canterbury Police District Communications Manager.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404