14-month-old girl's death now homicide inquiry

The sudden death of a 14-month-old baby girl has become a homicide investigation, Palmerston North police said today.

Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Sheridan said preliminary post mortem examination results indicated Mereana Wairakau Karoline Ponamu Clements-Matete died from internal injuries.

The girl was admitted to the accident and emergency department of Palmerston North Hospital on Wednesday night. Attempts to revive her were unsuccessful.

"Investigators have interviewed a number of Mereana's whanau and neighbours. Further interviews will be conducted," Mr Sheridan said.

Detectives, scientists and police forensic staff had completed a scene examination of the home where Mereana lived in the Palmerston North suburb of Westbrook.

Police investigations focused on circumstances leading up to the baby's admission to hospital.

- NZPA