Key Takeaways
- The body of a 3-year-old boy was found at a property in Kerr St, Devonport, on New Year’s Day
- An autopsy was carried out on January 3, but the circumstances around the incident are still unexplained
- Police are investigating the death and have issued a new appeal to the public to find the adult and at least two children believed to have used the pool at the house that day
- Detective Inspector Aaron Pascoe is leading the investigation and has urged anyone with information to contact police on 105
- The police do not believe the individuals who used the pool were present at the address at the time of the death, but are asking them to come forward to confirm their movements and any observations they may have made
Introduction to the Incident
The discovery of a 3-year-old boy’s body at a property in Kerr St, Devonport, on New Year’s Day has left the community in shock. According to Detective Inspector Aaron Pascoe, the circumstances surrounding the incident are unexplained, but there is no ongoing risk to the public. An autopsy was carried out on January 3, but the results have not been made public. The police are investigating the death and have issued a new appeal to the public to find the adult and at least two children believed to have used the pool at the house that day.
Eyewitness Accounts
A neighbour, who did not want to be identified, reported hearing an adult and children swimming and playing in a pool at the property from about midday until 3pm on New Year’s Day. She said that the noise stopped suddenly, and she heard nothing of any later incident that led to the discovery of the boy’s body. The neighbour expressed her concern and regret, stating that she could have potentially saved the child if she had known what was happening. The street where the incident occurred is described as a tight-knit community where everyone knows each other, making the event even more shocking and puzzling.
Investigation and Appeal
Detective Inspector Aaron Pascoe is leading the investigation into the unexplained death. He has urged anyone with information about the incident to contact police on 105 and quote the file number 260102/0177. The police have also asked those who might have dashcam or CCTV footage to come forward. Pascoe has stated that the death is being treated as unexplained and that the police do not believe the individuals who used the pool were present at the address at the time of the death. However, they are asking these individuals to come forward to confirm their movements and any observations they may have made. This appeal is crucial in helping the police to piece together the events surrounding the incident and to determine the circumstances leading to the boy’s death.
Community and Police Response
The community in Kerr St, Devonport, is known for its mix of historic villas, cottages, and character homes, and the incident has sent shockwaves through the neighbourhood. Six neighbouring properties were formerly Kāinga Ora homes, sold into private ownership last year, but this does not appear to be related to the incident. The police response has been swift, with Detective Inspector Pascoe leading the investigation and making public appeals for information. The police have also reassured the public that there is no ongoing risk to the community. As the investigation continues, the community remains in shock and is waiting for answers about the circumstances surrounding the boy’s death.
Detective Inspector Aaron Pascoe’s Experience
Detective Inspector Aaron Pascoe has experience in handling high-profile cases, including the unexplained death of Pauline Hanna in 2021. Hanna was found dead at the Remuera mansion she shared with her husband, eye surgeon Philip Polkinghorne, who was later charged with her murder and found not guilty in 2024. Pascoe’s involvement in this case demonstrates his expertise in investigating complex and sensitive cases, and his leadership in the current investigation is crucial in ensuring that all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined.
Conclusion
The discovery of the 3-year-old boy’s body in Devonport has left the community in shock, and the police are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The investigation is ongoing, and the police are urging anyone with information to come forward. As the community waits for answers, it is essential to remember that the police are working tirelessly to ensure that justice is served. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the need for everyone to look out for each other, especially in times of tragedy.