Boy's death to be referred to coroner

The death of a 12 year old boy at New Brighton overnight will be referred to the coroner, according to Christchurch Police.

Police were called to a car park in New Brighton at approximately 11.20pm last night by Ambulance staff.  Attempts to resuscitate the boy were unsuccessful and he died at the scene.

Initial enquiries into the boy’s death indicate he had been with a group of young people who had been sniffing butane from a canister.

Police say they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the death, which will now be referred to the coroner. A post-mortem is expected to be held on Monday. Enquiries will also be made into the sale of the butane to the group of youths.

The identity of the boy has not been released as next of kin have yet to be notified.

Police say that while the cause of death has yet to be confirmed, the incident highlights the dangers of people sniffing butane or “huffing” as it is known.

No further information is expected to be released today. Police will advise any further updates by way of media statement.