A 23-year-old tradie from Gunnedah, NSW, has been charged with the alleged murder of a two-year-old boy, leaving the community reeling in shock and grief.
Benjamin Gene Fitzroy was arrested on January 31, following a week-long investigation by homicide detectives, and has been refused bail.
What Happened to Little Kingsley?
According to police, Fitzroy allegedly fatally injured Kingsley Field before the toddler was found unconscious in a South Tamworth home on January 24.
Despite paramedics’ best efforts, Kingsley was rushed to Tamworth Base Hospital, where he tragically died from his injuries.
The alleged crime is even more disturbing, given that Fitzroy was on a community corrections order at the time.
A Community in Mourning
As the news of Kingsley’s senseless murder spread, tributes have begun pouring in for the little boy. His great grandmother, Penny, has launched a GoFundMe to help cover funeral costs, describing Kingsley as “our sweet little boy” whose life was “cut short.”
Others have remembered Kingsley as “heaven’s little angel,” with his great aunt Candy Looman writing a heartfelt tribute, saying “you’re one of heaven’s angels now… may you fly with magic wings, on clouds so soft and white.”
Investigation Ongoing
Detective Inspector Tom Aylett has confirmed that police do not anticipate making any further arrests, but investigations into Kingsley’s death are ongoing.
Fitzroy, who has been charged with domestic violence murder, is not the father of the child, and his social media pages paint a contrasting picture of a man who enjoyed cars, motorbikes, and working out.
Justice Will Be Served
If convicted, Fitzroy faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. He is next due to appear in Tamworth Local Court on April 16.
As the community continues to grapple with the senseless loss of a young life, one thing is clear: justice will be served, and Kingsley’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.