Man charged over death of two-year-old boy in Muirhouse
and live on Freeview channel 276
The boy, named yesterday as Julius Czapla, was found seriously injured after emergency services were called to a block of flats in Muirhouse Place West around 9.30am on Saturday morning. He died a short time later.
Police confirmed on Sunday night that a 40-year-old man had been charged in connection with the death, and is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdDetective chief inspector Lynn McFall said: “I’d like to thank the local people in the Muirhouse community for their help during this inquiry. This was an isolated incident.”
Hundreds of tributes have poured in as the local community was left in shock.
A neighbour who lives in the building said: “They seem like a very quiet family. They keep themselves to themselves. He was a lovely wee boy, I’ve seen him in the stair. We are all thinking of them at this time.”
Pauline Nicole-Bowie, Director of Low Income Families Together based at the Muirhouse Millennium Centre said the community had taken the news “very, very hard”.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad"The family were not well known in the area, they seemed quiet.
"Though they weren't known to our service, I know that everyone will be there for them. They will be well looked after.”
Pictures taken from the scene in Muirhouse on Saturday showed the entrance to a block of flats taped off and a police officer standing outside the doorway. Forensic officers were also seen entering the building.
Candles, flowers and soft toys were left at a tree nearby and cards were placed at the scene.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdKevin Lang, councillor for Almond ward said: “This has been such tragic and upsetting news. My heart goes out to all the family and friends who I know will be devastated by the Julius’ loss.
“There is a strong sense of community in Muirhouse and I know local people will come together and support each other, just as they have always done here in the past. The Police are carrying out a full and thorough investigation and I would encourage anyone who has any relevant information to contact them as soon as possible.”
Others paid tribute on social media.
Among them was Plesea Danut who said: “I went today with my family to pay the respects the poor wee soul and my eight year old boy asked me where the wee boy went. How do you answer that? It is totally heartbreaking, that poor innocent kid taken so so early, just why.”
Another, Sean Evans said: “Awful news, still in tears.”
Kathellen Will said: “Poor little boy you are in our prayers.”
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdTracy Stirling said: “You’re going to be missed wee man. Shine bright.”