Radio NZ
January 7 2007; 17:39

Suspected suffociation in 10 year old homicide investigation

The police in Christchurch have started a homicide investigation after the sudden death of a 10-year old girl.

Charlene Makaza died in Christchurch Hospital after being rushed there by caregivers who found her unconscious in bed in a house in Ilam yesterday.

Detective Inspector Malcolm Johnston says her condition deteriorated and she died early this morning.

He says early post mortem results indicate she was suffocated.

A scene examination is underway and family members are being questioned.