A woman charged with the murder of her four-year-old son in east London has appeared in court.
Police were called to an address in Montague Road, Hackney, on Wednesday night following concerns about the welfare of a child.
Inside, officers found Kobi Macharia Dooly, who had suffered knife injuries, and arrested his 41-year-old mother, Keziah Macharia.
The child was taken to hospital, but despite the efforts of the emergency services, later died from his injuries.
Kobi is the son of Ben Dooly, who is originally from Tramore, Co Waterford, but has lived in England for many years.
The family are well-known in business and sporting circles in Tramore and beyond.
The extended family are involved in the ownership of local takeaway businesses and an amusement arcade.
In a statement this afternoon, the family said: “With heavy hearts we bid farewell to Kobi, you will be so dearly missed.”
“The joy and laughter you brought to the world has been taken from us far too soon. We will be thinking of you day and night for eternity till we meet you again.
“The family would like to acknowledge and appreciate all messages of support. Please respect our family privacy at this very difficult time.”
Ms Macharia has appeared in custody at Thames Magistrates’ Court and she is scheduled to appear at London’s Old Bailey on 28 December.
In a statement last night, the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs said it was “aware of the case and providing consular assistance”.
“As with all consular cases, the department does not comment on the details of individual cases.”
Yesterday, Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, who leads policing for Hackney and Tower Hamlets said: “This is an extremely distressing incident which will understandably cause shock and disbelief amongst the local community and those who attended the scene.
“We are working with our partners, including Hackney Council and the school community, to ensure support is there for people who need it.
“Specialist officers from our homicide team are progressing this investigation and continue to work to establish the circumstances of this young child’s death, and the events that led up to it.
“This incident occurred within the home and, while is no wider public safety risk, additional officers will be present in the area as we recognise the impact this will have on the community.”
Additional reporting Conor Kane
