As the anniversary of Timothy Tu’uaki Rolleston-Bryan’s death approaches, his grieving grandparents say they are feeling “angry and upset” that the police investigation into the fatal dog attack remains open.
Four-year-old Timothy, also known as Timoti, was attacked by dogs on March 28 last year in Tuapiro, Katikati, and died shortly afterwards at Katikati Medical Centre.
Timoti’s guardian and grandmother, Amy Rolleston, told the Bay of Plenty Times she and husband Timothy Bryan felt “blindsided” to learn the investigation was still ongoing.
She said about eight months ago, they were told by the police the inquiry was closed, and no charges would be laid – a decision they supported.
Following the attack, three dogs were seized and euthanised.
Rolleston said she was “angry and upset” to discover on February 27 that the police investigation had not been finalised as they believed.
“Now it feels like we’re being forced to relive the worst time of our lives again.”
Rolleston said their “biggest concern” was the emotional impact this would have on everyone involved.
“It will always affect us, and reopening the possibility of charges feels like it is setting us all back in our healing process,” she said.
“I’m especially concerned about the dogs’ owners ... Timothy loved them, and they loved him. He brought so much joy into their lives, and this tragedy has already weighed heavily on them.
“Reopening this investigation and potentially laying charges risks resurfacing significant trauma for ... all of us. Nothing will bring Timothy home. It feels like reopening wounds that have barely begun to heal.”
Rolleston said Timoti’s death had left a painful and permanent absence in their lives.
“Losing Timoti in such a tragic way is the most painful experience of our lives. We are still very sad and deeply upset ... In the early months, the grief was nearly debilitating.
“Even now, there are moments of sadness that catch up with us, unexpectedly.”
Rolleston said she, her husband, and Timoti’s cousin Jayleen were receiving support from a grief counsellor through Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tamawhariua, a Katikati-based health and social services provider.
“And they have been a great help in processing our grief and finding ways to carry the grief rather than be consumed by it. We’re learning that coping does not mean forgetting, but finding a way to live while carrying Timoti’s memory with us.
“We hold onto the love Timoti brought into our lives, and that love remains, even in sorrow.”
March 10 would have been Timoti’s 5th birthday. His family plans to visit him at the urupā and have a “little party” with his cousins.
Rolleston said the unveiling ceremony at the urupā would normally have taken place within a year, but they were still waiting for a customised memorial stone to arrive.
She said to honour Timoti’s life, the family was planning a community-focused carnival in his memory, likely in June, in a paddock at Tuapiro Marae.
“Something that will be joyful and full of life because Timoti absolutely loved a big party.
“We want to reflect his spirit, fun, laughter and bring people together. Alongside the usual carnival rides and entertainment, everything will be free to enable all families to attend and feel included.”
Rolleston said the carnival would also include workshops and information sessions focused on topics such as children’s safety around pets, mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
“Our hope in bringing these important conversations into a positive, community-focused space, we can help to protect and support other families.”
She said the carnival was also about acknowledging the “incredible kindness and support” received from the community after Timoti’s death, and the love that carried them through “their darkest days”.
“It isn’t just about having a day of fun, but creating something meaningful from our loss and spreading joy, raising awareness and strengthening our community in his name.”
Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Flowerdew-Brown confirmed the investigation into Timothy’s death is ongoing and is in its final stages.
Police received new information relating to the case in January and were still assessing it, and were yet to decide if charges should be laid, she said.
“Timothy’s family will be kept up-to-date with any significant updates in our investigation.
“Our thoughts remain with them, and we continue to offer them the necessary support while work is ongoing. We remain committed to reaching an outcome in this investigation for Timothy and his family.”
Sandra Conchie is a senior journalist at the Bay of Plenty Times and Rotorua Daily Post and has been a journalist for 25 years. She mainly covers police, court and other justice stories, as well as general news. She has been a Canon Media Awards regional/community reporter of the year.