A one-year-old child who drowned last Saturday was laid to rest on Wednesday at his family’s home in Matafa'a, Lefaga.

The deceased has been identified as Iona Pasina Pati and he was his parents' sixth child.

When Samoa Observer approached the family for comments, the parents of the deceased said they were in mourning and were busy with preparations for their child's funeral. 

The Police said in a statement that they responded to a call from staff at the Motootua Hospital, who reported that they had the body of a one-year-old baby boy who was believed to have drowned at Matafaa, Lefaga.

“His family took him to the Motootua Hospital Emergency and he was declared dead on arrival,” stated Police.

“Preliminary investigation indicated that the family home is near the sea and was left unsupervised.

“Criminal Investigation Divisions is investigating the matter.”

Police also advised members of the public to ensure the safety of young children to be first priority and that they should not be left unsupervised. 

Following the drowning tragedy were two other cases which involved the deaths of young children.

Police reported that a four-year-old child was believed to have been struck by a vehicle at Tiavea last Sunday with the driver being charged with negligent driving causing death. He has been remanded in custody until first of October for mention.