Title: Investigation into Potential Interventions by Oranga Tamariki Initiated following Toddler’s Tragic Death
Oranga Tamariki, the organization responsible for the well-being of children in New Zealand, is currently examining whether there were any missed opportunities to intervene before the untimely death of toddler Ruthless-Empire Ahipene-Wall. It has come to light that the toddler had been linked to the agency’s case management system. However, Oranga Tamariki’s Chief Executive Chappie Te Kani clarified that the child was not in their custody or care at the time of the incident.
The agency has acknowledged that the toddler had an identification number in their case management system, which is created whenever a report of concern is made or when someone contacts them with worries about a child. While Chief Social Worker Peter Whitcombe refrained from commenting on the specific case, Te Kani assured that Oranga Tamariki is actively collaborating with partner agencies to determine the level of support provided to Ruthless-Empire and his family prior to his tragic demise. They are also investigating whether potential interventions could have been implemented.
In the 2022/23 period alone, Oranga Tamariki received a staggering 71,616 reports of concern, leading to 38,727 assessments and investigations. Additionally, 6,591 Care and Protection Family Group Conferences were held during this time. With these figures in mind, it is clear that the need for effective interventions is crucial.
The New Zealand Police‘s Detective Inspector Nick Pritchard expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, emphasizing that Ruthless-Empire was an innocent child who should have been safe and loved. While the investigation into his death initially regarded it as unexplained, it has now been upgraded to a homicide case. Three individuals residing in the same house as the toddler and his mother, Storm Angel Wall, are currently being questioned as persons of interest.
Oranga Tamariki has refrained from providing information about the two adults living in the house along with Ruthless-Empire and his mother. Privacy reasons have been cited for this decision. It was previously reported that the three individuals were Rosie Morunga, Dylan Ross, and Wall herself.
The tragic loss of Ruthless-Empire has left his family heartbroken. His uncle, Ngatanahira Reremoana, took to social media to express their sorrow. He referred to the toddler as a baby who had touched many hearts during his brief time on earth. Reremoana recalled the first time he held Ruthless-Empire as a newborn, noting his fear of causing any harm to the tiny baby. The family received the devastating news of his death just as they were preparing to attend a traditional gathering. They were deeply saddened to learn of their baby’s unsuccessful resuscitation attempts.
Oranga Tamariki acknowledges the need to evolve and improve its data collection and management systems. The organization is committed to working closely with other agencies to address the current gaps in the system and ensure that data can be utilized effectively. The goal is to enhance the collective care and protection of children growing up in New Zealand.
The investigation into Ruthless-Empire’s death is ongoing, and the police have provided no further updates at this time. However, they remain dedicated to exploring all possible avenues, including collaborating with Oranga Tamariki and other family members to gain a comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to this tragic incident.
As the investigation unfolds, it is imperative that continuous efforts are made to safeguard the well-being of children across New Zealand. Oranga Tamariki and its partner agencies play a crucial role in identifying and responding to risks, ensuring that each child receives the support they need to thrive in a safe and loving environment.
