The man allegedly took the baby to Wagga Wagga Base Hospital on July 27, 2023 in a critical condition.
Detective Inspector Peter Owen reported that the infant had “numerous broken bones throughout his body and some other injuries” and was experiencing a critical illness, though he did not elaborate on the specifics.
The baby was transferred to Sydney Children’s Hospital, where he died three days later.
The death was then referred to the Child Abuse Squad.
The 26-year-old Wagga Wagga man, who is a family member of the child, was arrested in Albury CBD at 10am today.
Owen said the man was in Albury “in pursuance of visitation with other children”.
He was taken to Albury Police Station and charged with manslaughter (DV).
Owen said the man was not previously adversely known to police, there was no history of domestic violence and no protection orders in police.
“The death of an infant is tragic,” Owen said.
“Where there is suspected inflicted injuries, is another level that is abhorrent to people.
“This situation has deeply affected many members of the community, various service providers, and undoubtedly the police as well. As police officers, we are human, and many of us are parents who prioritize protecting our children,” he expressed.
He said the baby has two siblings who are safe and well.
“Strike Force investigations that are homicide-based take a long time,” Owen said.
“We’ve interviewed a lot of people and unfortunately, we weren’t able to establish what actually happened to the child by interviewing those people.
“It’s been coming up to two years of consistent dedicated work by a small team of regional detectives.
“The dedication and devotion to that job is an absolute credit to those detectives.
“The (NSW) Crime Commission provided valuable assistance through hearings on the case, and today, we’ve reached the point of making an arrest, which truly honors the dedication of the Strike Force team,” he concluded.
The man was refused bail today and was due to appear in Albury Local Court.
