A major homicide investigation is underway on the NSW Central Coast after a four-year-old boy was found dead inside a residential unit in Wyong, prompting police to carry out extensive forensic testing on his mother as they examine all possible circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

Emergency services were called to a home on Byron Street, Wyong, after the child’s mother attended a local police station and raised concerns that triggered a welfare check at the property. When officers entered the unit, they discovered the boy’s body inside. He was later confirmed to have suffered significant injuries, and detectives immediately launched a homicide investigation.

The 32-year-old woman, who is known to police, was arrested at the scene and charged with domestic violence-related murder. She was refused bail and remains in custody as the investigation continues, with her next court appearance scheduled for September.

Police have confirmed that forensic procedures are being carried out on the woman, including collection of swabs, blood samples, nail clippings, and other trace evidence. Investigators are also examining material from the crime scene to determine exactly what happened in the hours and days leading up to the child’s death.

Authorities have also stated that allegations of cannibalism are being treated as part of the investigation, meaning detectives are considering all possibilities while awaiting forensic and post-mortem results. However, police have not confirmed any physical evidence supporting those claims, and have urged caution about speculation while inquiries are ongoing.

The case has deeply shocked the local community. Residents in Wyong have described the situation as distressing and difficult to comprehend, particularly given the age of the child and the circumstances in which he was found. Community members have begun leaving tributes near the residence, while support services have been deployed to assist first responders and investigators dealing with the confronting scene.

The NSW Department of Communities and Justice has confirmed it had previous contact with the family and is now reviewing its involvement. This has prompted renewed discussion about child protection systems and whether warning signs were adequately acted upon prior to the tragedy.

Police have stressed that the investigation is still in its early stages and that establishing a clear timeline of events will take time. Forensic pathology results, including the post-mortem examination, are expected to play a key role in determining the exact cause of death and whether any of the allegations under investigation are substantiated.

Authorities are urging the public not to speculate and to allow the legal process to proceed as detectives work through what has been described as an extremely complex and sensitive case.