Police have launched a murder investigation after the death of a toddler in Co Tyrone.
Tavia Michella Ximenes Da Costa, who was just 23 months old, was found dead at a home in the Windmill Court area of Dungannon on Sunday morning.
Three people, two women and one man, were arrested in connection with the girl’s murder – a 21-year-old woman, a 24-year-old woman, and a 29-year-old man were each arrested on suspicion of murder.
They remain in police custody at this time.
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Detective Chief Inspector Anthony Kelly said: “Police, along with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, responded to the report of the sudden death of a child in the Windmill Court area of the town on Sunday morning, 13 October.
“Sadly, Tavia, who was just weeks away from her second birthday, was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Following the results of a post mortem examination, I can now confirm that I am treating her death as a murder.”
Detective Chief Inspector Kelly continued: “My thoughts, and sincere sympathy, are with little Tavia’s family members and loved ones whose worlds have been turned upside down.
“Detectives are appealing to anyone with information to contact them on 101, quoting reference 436 of 13/10/24.
“Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers, who guarantee complete anonymity, on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”
Watch: Residents tell of devastation following sudden death of child in Dungannon