Revealed: Cause of death of six-year-old boy 'murdered by his mother' in his Swansea bungalow

A six-year-old boy who was allegedly murdered by his mother died from a “significant neck injury,” the inquest heard.

Alexander Zurawski was found dead in a bungalow in Swansea on August 29 after concerned neighbours called emergency services.

At today's inquest at Swansea Coroner's Court, it was heard that paramedics found him lying in a pool of blood and that, despite all efforts, he died at the scene.

At the hearing, it was determined that Alexander's cause of death, following the autopsy, was “complex trauma to the neck area.”

His mother, 41-year-old Karolina Zurawska, has since been charged with his murder and the attempted murder of her own 67-year-old father, Krzysztof Siwi, on the same day.

Karolina Zurawska, pictured here outside Swansea Magistrates Court on September 2, was charged with his murder

At today's hearing, Detective Inspector David Butt, of South Wales Police, said: “On 29 August, paramedics and officers from South Wales Police were called to Cwm Du Close following concerns raised by local residents.”

“Officers discovered a six-year-old boy with significant neck injuries and blood loss.”

DI Butt said a post-mortem examination had shown the provisional cause of death to be “complex trauma to the neck area”.

Deputy Coroner Gruffydd said: “I open the inquest into the death of Alexander Zurawski and adjourn the matter until such time as the criminal investigation has been concluded.”

Zurawska was previously remanded in custody at Swansea Crown Court after being charged with Alexander's death and the alleged attack on her father.

Following Alexander's death, Chief Superintendent Chris Truscott, Divisional Commander for Swansea and Neath Port Talbot, said: “This is a disturbing incident which has come as a huge shock to the local community.”

“The local community has been extremely supportive of our investigations and we would like to thank them all for their patience during these traumatic days.”

“In the coming days, the police will remain present on site to provide advice and reassurance.”

“Our thoughts are with Alexander’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

In a tribute, Alexander's family said he was “very smart and very mature” and spoke both English and Polish, and teachers at his school described him as “very popular”.

The inquest heard that paramedics found Alexander in a pool of blood in the bungalow in Cwm Du Close in Gendros, Swansea.

The heartbroken family paid tribute to the boy, reminding him how “very smart and very mature” he was.

His family added that he was “a very friendly child.”

They said: “He loved playing with his little sister and his dog 'Daisy'.”

“Alexander was always well-behaved and never naughty.

“He was very smart and very mature for his age. He had a lot of expertise.

“Alexander was always helpful. Always ready to help with cooking and cleaning.

“Alexander spoke both English and Polish and often corrected his parents with their English when they got words wrong.

“He was incredible.”

Bethan Peterson, headteacher of Whitestone Primary School, said: “We are devastated to learn of Alexander’s tragic death. Alexander was a delightful, determined little boy whose tenacity and positive nature ensured success in everything he undertook.

“He was an extremely popular and well-liked boy among his classmates, staff and everyone who knew him. He will be greatly missed.”

“The affected children, staff and everyone else in our school community will be provided with appropriate support. We ask that you respect the privacy of our school community during this difficult time.”

Local Labour MP Torsten Bell said: “This is heartbreaking news that has shocked everyone in Swansea.”

“Our thoughts are with those affected and the community grappling with the tragic loss of a child.”