The parents of a baby boy killed in a dog attack in Christchurch earlier this week have mourned the loss of their "wee sunshine" in a tribute shared to social media.
Police have now named the boy as one-year-old Sonny-Charles Watson, who died at a Basingstoke St property in Aranui on Friday afternoon.
"Sonny was not just the light of our lives but everyone he came in contact with. The most beautiful little boy, full of love and laughter for everyone. Shine bright our ray of sunshine," his parents said in a statement released through police.
Police were called to the address at around 4.45pm on Friday following reports a child had sustained dog bite injuries. Detective Senior Sergeant Dan Overend said a young child was found in a critical condition at the scene.
"Despite the immediate efforts of first responders and a member of the household, the child sadly died at the scene," Overend said.
Overend said the dog involved was known to the occupants of the address and lived there. In an update on Saturday, police said the animal had been removed from the address.
Police extended their sympathies to Sonny's family, friends and all those who knew and loved him.
"The loss of a child is a tragedy beyond words, and we continue to support Sonny's family as they navigate this unimaginable loss. We ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve," police said.
In a separate tribute posted to social media, Sonny's parents earlier wrote: "It is with great sadness that we have lost our wee sunshine. We appreciate all the love and messages from everyone."
“I ask for you to give us some time and respect to [grieve] before we get back to everyone."
Details on a tangi service would be announced soon, they wrote.
"Feel free to send message of love but we will not be responding until the time is right."
"Fly high sunshine. Love you forever."
A Givealittle page created to raise funds for the family had received nearly $10,000 in donations within 14 hours.
Police had remained at the Basingstoke St address on Friday night as investigators carried out a scene examination.
The investigation continued into Saturday, with officers speaking to the occupants of the home and providing them with support.
"It's a very sad situation, and my first thoughts were with the family and how devastated they must be at the loss of their child," Local Burwood Ward councillor Kelly Barber told RNZ.
"I also hope there is something we can learn from the ongoing police investigation that reduces the likelihood of this ever happening again."
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