Police probe death of 7-month-old baby in Hamilton

Police are investigating the injury and subsequent death of a 7-month-old girl in Hamilton. Photo / Christine Cornege

A post mortem examination will be carried out in Auckland today to determine how a 7-month-old Hamilton girl died.

The baby died in Waikato Hospital yesterday of unexplained injuries after she was rushed to Waikato Hospital on Wednesday.

Police would not reveal the nature of the infant's injuries or if anyone is facing any charges, but said yesterday the investigation that involved several ESR staff and detectives combing the Housing New Zealand unit in Hamilton East would continue.

Police announced the baby's death about 1pm yesterday. A police guard stood outside the house overnight on Wednesday and last night.

Noel Sanson, a 56-year-old beneficiary who lives in one of the 12 units at the complex said the news of the baby's death was "a bloody tragedy".

"For myself, personally, it's a bloody disaster. From what I could see the baby was the centre of their lives," he said.

"I didn't see him as affectionate and loving but there was a process there ... she was a very quiet person but she was clearly a good mother."

Mr Sanson said the couple were quiet and kept to themselves. They had a party last Thursday that he did not know about until another neighbour told him.

"You really wouldn't hear a peep out of either of them, it's just a tragedy.

"The shopkeeper told me the guy went to the shop to buy some baby stuff and when they suggested something better for the baby he had no hesitation and bought it - he just wanted the best for the little baby."

Another neighbour said he felt sorry for the young woman, who he said was a good mother while the man could come across as aggressive. He said the man had a run-in with a cleaner at the units some timeago.

Waikato Senior Sergeant Carl Moon said no further comment would be made until the situation became clearer.

ESR scientists have finished their part of the examination.

However, the physical examination is expected to continue through today and police will continue inquiries with neighbours.

Hamilton baby death

• Wednesday night: 7-month-old baby girl rushed to Waikato Hospital with unexplained injuries.

• 1pm yesterday: Police announce the baby has died.

• Today: A post mortem examination will be carried out in Auckland