Hati faces a harrowing murder charge, upgraded from assaulting a child, while Timu is charged with manslaughter. Both remain in custody as court proceedings unfold, with Hati forgoing a bail application and Timu initially appearing without legal representation.
Tensions ran high in the courtroom as family members of the young boy voiced their grief and anger, one relative heartbreakingly shouting, “You killed my baby.” Rickah’Shae’s family, clad in “Forever 8” hoodies and custom remembrance T-shirts, were visibly emotional as they mourned the loss of the bright young boy whose life was cut short after an alleged assault reported at Whakatāne Hospital on November 15.
Meanwhile, Hati’s family stood by her, expressing their love as she exited the dock. The tragedy has cast a shadow over the Te Teko community, as questions about the events leading to Rickah’Shae’s death remain unanswered. The two accused women will return to court in February, where pleas are expected to be entered.
