New Zealand – A 25-year-old man has been charged with the murder of an eight-month-old girl in Whanganui in 2016.

He appeared in Masterton District Court today (Thursday 20 September) and has been remanded in custody.

Bella Richardson died at a property in Whanganui on 7 November 2016.

The accused was known but not related to her.

Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Baskett says he hopes this charge will bring some closure for Bella’s family.

“This has been a protracted investigation due to the complex nature of the medical evidence.

I would like to thank all those who helped with the investigation.”

Police is not in a position to comment further as the matter is now before the court.