Mum accused of killing four-year-old son in knife attack cries in court

A mum accused of killing her four-year-old son broke down in tears during her first appearance in court.

Keziah Macharia, 41, is charged with the murder of Kobi Macharia Dooly, who was found dead with multiple cuts in his cot on December 20.

Concerns were raised on the day of his death by Kobi’s dad Ben Dooly who split up with Macharia a year ago.

Police forced their way in to Macharia’s flat in Hackney, east London, following the 999 call.

He was found with a number of sharp force injuries lying in his cot, was taken to the Royal London Hospital, where he died the next day.

Macharia was arrested and charged with murder on December 22.

Macharia appeared via video link from Bronzefield prison today for a preliminary hearing held at the Old Bailey.

A plea and trial preparation hearing will be held on March 21.

A trial before a High Court judge was provisionally scheduled to go on for up to 10 days on November 4 2024.

Macharia spoke to confirm her name and date of birth and sobbed while details of the case were outlined.

She has been remanded in custody.

Kobi’s cause of death is yet to be confirmed but sharp force injuries, including one to the front of the neck and another to the upper left chest, are believed to be the cause.

Kobi’s dad previously said in a statement: ‘With heavy hearts we bid farewell to Kobi, you will be so dearly missed.

‘The joy and laughter you brought to the world has been taken far too soon. We will be thinking of you day and night for eternity until we meet you again.

‘The family would like to acknowledge and appreciate all messages of support. Please respect our family privacy at this very difficult time.’

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