A six-year-old Chinese boy was fatally attacked shortly after returning from school yesterday afternoon at Parika, East Bank Essequibo, with a male Chinese national now in Police custody.

The child, identified as Zi Feng Cao, was attacked outside his family’s business, Ocean Restaurant, at Parika.

Sources confirmed to Kiskadee Watch that Cao had just returned from school before the fatal attack and that the suspect was known to his family.

Police said that at about 15:45 hrs yesterday, the child sustained a chop wound to his neck during an incident involving the male suspect.

Cao was rushed to the De Kinderen Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor. His body was subsequently taken to Ezekiel Funeral Home.

As news of his death spread, Cao was remembered by members of the Parika community as a kind-hearted boy who was always willing to help others.

He was also remembered by members of the Hydronie Nursery School, which he attended.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Human Services met with Cao’s family following the tragedy and pledged her support to his parents as they grapple with the loss of their son.

The suspect was subsequently arrested and remains in Police custody as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

Investigations are ongoing.

The Ministry of Education issued the following statement:

“Hon. Sonia Parag, Minister of Education, and the entire Ministry of Education extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences on the devastating and senseless loss of little Zi Feng Cao of Hydronie Nursery School. He was just six years old.

“Words cannot ease such profound grief, but our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt love are with his family, especially his parents, teachers, and classmates, during this unimaginably painful time.

“May his sweet, beautiful soul find eternal rest”.

On Facebook, Sonia Boodhoo wrote the following:

I don’t know what to say right now.

..imagine a little baby who comes with his mommy to do deliveries by my house got murdered today.

It’s one thing when you read the news. Another when it’s someone you know.

He always wants to see the puppies when he comes. I remind my kids sometimes to take them downstairs when they’re picking up the order. 

They chat with our puppies before leaving. I always admire the way he goes with his mommy on the bike and I would think to myself, someday he would become quite a savvy businessman.

RIP little one.