Radio NZ
January 7 2007; 19:27

Five family members questioned in Chch child homicide enquiry

Police in Christchurch are interviewing family members of a 10 year old girl whose death is being treated as a homicide.

Charlene Makaza was found unconscious and breathing erratically in her bed in the suburb of Ilam by her aunt yesterday.

She was taken to Christchurch Hospital where she died early this morning.

Detective Inspector Malcolm Johnston says an initial post mortem indicates suffocation.

He says the girl was cared for by an aunt and uncle, and they along with her sister and two cousins are being questioned.

Malcolm Johnston says a second post mortem will be conducted tomorrow.