Police in Australia are pursuing claims that cannibalism may have been a factor in the death of a four-year-old boy, whose body was discovered on Saturday at a home in Wyong on New South Wales' Central Coast. The investigation has taken a dark turn, with police sources confirming to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) that cannibalism will form part of the probe.
Arrest and Charges
A woman, understood to be known to the boy, was arrested and charged with murder (domestic violence) on Sunday. She presented herself at Wyong police station, prompting a welfare check at her property. Officers from the Tuggerah Lakes Police District found the boy's lifeless body at approximately 4:40pm local time on Saturday (July 4). According to news.com.au, the body had 'significant arm injuries' and had been 'deceased for some time'.
Cannibalism Investigation
The Sydney Morning Herald reported that investigators are looking into whether cannibalism was a contributing factor in the boy's death, citing police sources not authorized to speak publicly. The Daily Telegraph also reported that the woman allegedly made a reference to cannibalism. It is not yet clear if there was evidence at the scene to suggest an act of cannibalism.
Police Response
NSW Police Superintendent Chad Gillies of Tuggerah Lakes Police described the scene as 'confronting' for first responders. 'My priority at the moment now is to work through the investigation with detectives to understand exactly what happened and why it happened, and importantly, as well, providing welfare to all the police that attended,' Supt Gillies said, as per news.com.au. He added, 'Whenever a child is a victim of violent crime and whenever a child is murdered, it strikes at the core of community.'
Community Reaction
A neighbour who used to babysit the boy described him as 'the happiest kid' he had ever seen. The neighbour told 9News that he recently found a toy car left by the child and would keep it as a memento. A family friend said the boy was 'very energetic'.
Court Appearance
The woman appeared before the Bail Division Court on Sunday, where she did not apply for bail, and it was refused. No further details of the alleged crime were heard. She is scheduled to appear in court again in September.
