The Press
January 10 2007
Homicide investigation
The family at the scene
of a homicide investigation into the death of a 10-year-old Christchurch girl
is co-operating, police say.
Charlene Makaza died in Christchurch
Hospital on Sunday after her aunt found her in bed suffering from breathing
difficulties on Saturday.
Detective Inspector Malcolm Johnston
said a post mortem pointed strongly to suffocation as the cause of Charlene's death.
"We don't believe the death was
accidental. I'm not prepared to discuss any injuries she may or may not
have," he said.
Police were still awaiting the
results of further post-mortem forensic tests to determine the cause of
Charlene's death. The results could take several weeks, Johnston said.
Police appreciated the co- operation
of Charlene's family while they were grieving, he said. "Police have a
very good rapport with the family."
Police were continuing inquiries
with the family and had interviewed 25 people, he said.