A MUM has been charged with the murder of her “super happy” toddler who was found with serious injuries at their home.
Natalie Steele is accused of killing tragic tot Reid Steele, two, at their home in the Parkwood Heights estate in Bridgend, South Wales.
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Little Reid was rushed to University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, in a critical condition from the £500k house but died later in hospital after doctors battled to save his life.
Steele, 31, was initially arrested on suspicion of murder and was held under the Mental Health act.
She has now been charged with his murder and will appear at Cardiff magistrates court later this afternoon.
Paying tribute to the toddler, Reid’s family said in a statement: “He was a super, super-happy, gorgeous, wonderful and intelligent little boy who lit up everyone’s lives.
“He loved the garden and the beach, picking raspberries and going for walks collecting shells.
“He was a very chatty little boy and would happily speak to anyone.”
Upset locals have been leaving flowers and cuddly toys at a site about half a mile from the house – as close as they can get.
A lion, a gorilla, and a rabbit are among the toys that have been left by schoolchildren and their parents.
‘PRECIOUS LITTLE BOY’
One said the “precious little boy” would always be in their thoughts while another teddy bear has written on its belly: “RIP Little Man. Sleep Tight.”
Neighbour Ceri Lawrence, who lives in the eight-house cul-de-sac, described the incident as as shocking.
She said: “They’ve always seemed like a very nice family – friendly and happy. There are always children coming and going.
“You don’t expect anything like that to happen in a place like this. Our thoughts are with them.”
Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Matt Davies, said: “This is a harrowing case for all concerned and my thoughts go out to Reid’s family who continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
“Legal proceedings are now live, and whilst I appreciate there are concerns in the community, I would urge people to refrain from speculating on social media.
“Our investigation continues, and anybody who thinks they may have relevant information is urged to make contact. The family respectfully ask to be left to grieve at this difficult time.”
Ian Spiller, councillor for Laleston, Bryntirion and Broadlands, said: “The community is absolutely devastated by the news, we are all in complete shock especially after the events that occurred last week.
“To have this happen in another community – in our community in Bridgend. I am absolutely speechless and our support goes out to those affected.”
Mr Spiller added that he was “very conscious” of the community’s “need to grieve and show support at this moment”.
He asked people to show their “love and support from a distance and not to be intrusive to the family concerned”.
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Source: The Sun
