Baby boy in Tauranga homicide named

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Police have released the name of the baby boy at the centre of a homicide inquiry in Tauranga this week.

He was three-month-old Richard Royal Arif Tekakahi Winiata Uddin.

Inquiry head Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Turner told the Bay of Plenty Times a post mortem to establish the cause of the baby's death was carried out on Thursday, "but the results won't be released at this stage, and enquiries are ongoing''.

Mr Turner said the homicide inquiry was still an active investigation and police were still gathering information.

"We are keen to talk to anyone who has had any interaction with the family and the other occupants who live at the rented 19th Avenue address.

''We are also interested in speaking to anyone who has information about activities at the scene address during the day and into the evening of June 7.

A 19th Avenue resident earlier told the paper a police officer canvassing the street had asked her about her movements and what she had seen or heard around 8pm that night.

However, Mr Turner would not be drawn on why the time may be significance to the inquiry.

The boy died in Tauranga Hospital on June 7 after he was taken there by his mother.

Mr Turner declined to say how soon after the boy arrived at hospital he died. He would also not be drawn on the baby's condition when he was admitted to hospital.

Mr Turner declined say whether police had a person of interest in the homicide inquiry.

''It's too early to comment on that or any potential charges. We have up to 10 days of solid enquiries to complete before we make any decisions."

The homicide investigation continues and police would like to speak to anyone who may have any information.

To contact the Tauranga Police phone (07) 577 4300 or anonymously to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

A 19th Avenue resident earlier told this reporter that a police officer canvassing the street had asked her about her movements and what she had seen or heard around 8pm that night.
However, Mr Turner would not be drawn on why the time may be significance to the inquiry.
The boy died in Tauranga Hospital on June 7 after he was taken there by his mother
Mr Turner declined to say how soon after the boy arrived at hospital it died.
He would also not be drawn on the baby's condition when he was admitted to hospital.
Mr Turner declined say whether police had a person of interest in the homicide inquiry.
It's too early to comment on that or any potential charges. We have up to 10 days of solid enquiries to complete before we make any decisions."