Murder charge over baby's death in 2016

A man has been charged with murder over the death of a baby girl nearly two years ago.

Eight-month-old Bella Richardson died in Whanganui on November 7, 2016.

The 25-year-old arrested for her murder was known to her, but they were not related.

The accused appeared in Masterton District Court today and was remanded in custody.

Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Baskett said he hoped the charge would 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."

Judge Barbara Morris granted the man interim name suppression until his next appearance in the High Court.

Defence lawyer Frank Minehan said the incident was of "historic nature" and he was concerned for the man's mental health.

The charge would have come as "a deep shock" to his family, Minehan said.

The defendant's mother supported him in court on Thursday afternoon.

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