Police appeal for information about Serenity's death

Police are appealing to anyone who may have information about the death of a six month old Ngaruawahia baby to talk to Police about what they know, so that someone can be held accountable for her death.

Serenity Scott-Dinnigton died in Auckland's Starship Hospital yesterday after her life-support was switched off. She was first admitted to Waikato Hospital on Tuesday and then transferred to Starship Hospital.

Police are still awaiting the results of a post-mortem to be undertaken in Auckland today, however, tests already completed have determined that the injuries that caused her death were not accidental.

The officer in charge of the homicide investigation, Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Greene, says there has been a lot of discussion in Ngaruawahia and around New Zealand since Serenity was first admitted to hospital – both in conversations and in online chatrooms.

He is appealing to those who may know something about this incident to come forward to Police.

"An innocent, six month old baby is dead. She has died at the hands of another and it everyone's responsibility to ensure that someone is held accountable for her death.

"If anyone knows anything about how Serenity sustained her fatal injuries, we are asking them to please come forward to tell us what they know."

Detective Senior Sergeant Greene says people can come forward to Police in confidence in necessary, and can also call the independent, anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

He says the investigation is progressing well, but it's vital that they speak to everyone who may have information.

The scene examination is continuing today at the house in Ngaruawahia where Serenity had been living leading up to her admission in hospital.