A man has been charged with murder following the death of two-year-old Maya Louise Chappell in County Durham last week.

Michael Daymond, 26, formerly of Shotton Colliery, has been remanded in custody and will appear at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court tomorrow morning. (Friday, October 7)

Police attended Milton Grove in Shotton Colliery on Wednesday, September 28, and Maya was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary, in Newcastle, by air ambulance in a critical condition.

The Northern Echo:

Read more: Heartbroken dad pays tribute as toddler injured in Shotton Colliery incident dies in hospital

Maya died in hospital on Friday evening.

A 23-year-old woman was also arrested in connection with the investigation and has since been released under investigation.

The Northern Echo: Floral tributes left in Milton Grove, Shotton CollieryFloral tributes left in Milton Grove, Shotton Colliery (Image: Floral tributes left in Milton Grove, Shotton Colliery)

People have left flowers, teddies, balloons and messages of support outside her home on Milton Grove and an online fundraiser to give Maya a fitting send-off has so far raised over £7,000.

The Northern Echo: Maya Louise Chappell Maya Louise Chappell (Image: Family photographs)

A candlelit vigil in memory of Maya is being held Consett Football Club on Friday evening  at 7.30pm.

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