Investigators have initiated a homicide inquiry subsequent to the demise of a little child in Dungannon, County Tyrone.
The victim has been identified as Tavia Michella Ximenes Da Costa, aged 23 months.
Detective Chief Inspector Anthony Kelly stated: “Law enforcement, in conjunction with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, responded to the report of a child’s sudden demise in the Windmill Court vicinity on the morning of Sunday, October 13.”
“Regrettably, Tavia Michella Ximenes Da Costa, merely weeks from her second birthday, was declared deceased at the scene.”
“Following the results of a post-mortem examination, I can now confirm that I am treating Tavia Michella Ximenes Da Costa’s death as a murder.”
He added: “My thoughts, and sincere sympathy, are with little Tavia Michella Ximenes Da Costa’s family members and loved ones whose worlds have been turned upside down. [Editors note – but not the ones who killed her, we presume?]
“Three people, two women and one man, were arrested in connection with the toddler’s murder.
“A 21-year-old woman, a 24-year-old woman and a 29-year-old man were each arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in custody at this time.”
Detectives are appealing to anyone with information to contact them on 101, quoting reference 436 of October 13.
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