Police investigating the death of Baby Ru say they will "continue to investigate every possible lead and piece of information we receive, no matter how small" on the three-year anniversary of his death.
Ruthless-Empire — known as Baby Ru — died in Hutt Hospital in Lower Hutt from severe head injuries just days before his second birthday on October 22, 2023.
At the time, police described the boy's death as "violent", and said his injuries could have come from a weapon, or through physical force such as slamming his head on a hard floor or table.
Three years on, a "small, dedicated team" of police continue to work on the homicide investigation - dubbed Operation Huia - which remained active with oversight from a senior investigating officer.
The lead detective told 1News that the investigation team was still searching for evidence. (Source: 1News)
Today, Detective Inspector Nick Pritchard said the investigation team "remain as committed as we were on day one that justice is served for Baby Ru".
"We are highly motivated to hold the person responsible to account, and we continue to engage with the Crown Solicitor and forensic experts to assess evidential material gathered in order to determine the criminal liability of persons of interest," he said.
Three adults known to Ru remain persons of interest in the investigation.
"We know there are people who know what happened to Baby Ru, and we believe this information is weighing on their conscience," Pritchard added.
It comes as police today outlined a trail of deception which occurred after the 1-year-old was taken to hospital. (Source: 1News)
"We urge you - lighten your load, do the right thing, and tell us what you know."
Today Baby Ru and his whānau should be excitedly preparing for his upcoming fifth birthday and first day at school - instead, they're marking the third anniversary of his death, police said.
Pritchard said his thoughts were with Ru's whānau at this difficult time, "what should be a time of celebration is now one of sadness".
Police thanked everyone who has contacted police with information, and urged anyone with any information, no matter how small, to report this online through 105 or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
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