Canterbury Police can confirm that emergency services were called to a residential address in Rolleston late yesterday afternoon (22 November 2015).
Superintendent Lane Todd says when medics arrived a three year old girl was found with a serious injury and transported to Christchurch Hospital. “Unfortunately she passed away while being treated in hospital a couple of hours after her arrival.”
The death has been referred to the Coroner. The girl’s family are understandably traumatised and are being supported by Canterbury Police, Victim Support and their family and friends.
“Her family have requested privacy and do not want to make any comment to media at this time.”
“The girl’s death is not being treated as suspicious and was a tragic accident. Police understand that she was playing with her sibling at the time of the incident. Police will not elaborate on the exact circumstances of this incident as this will form part of the ongoing Coronial Investigation” explained Superintendent Todd.
“On behalf of Canterbury Police and the members of the emergency services that responded to the address yesterday I would like to pass on our sincere condolences to her family. This incident is even more devastating given that the festive season and summer break are a month away.”
Media note: An audio file of Superintendent Todd verbalising this release is available by texting the Canterbury Police District Communications Manager on 021 942 404
ENDS
Issued by: Canterbury Police District Communications Manager, Lisa-Marie Brooks