Demands for families to be held to account to stop kids dying from abuse

A homicide investigation's been launched into the death of Lower Hutt toddler Ruthless-Empire Wall -- who was killed from blunt force trauma.

Our newsroom understands his uncle contacted Oranga Tamariki, wanting the toddler to be uplifted.

In July, Police conducted a welfare check in, with no concerns noted.

Whanau Ora Commissioning Agency Chair, Merepeka Raukawa-Tait says families need to take on greater responsibilities.

She says that takes committed whanau, hapu and iwi leadership to say this has to stop.