Murder suspect, 26, wipes away tears as he appears in court charged with killing two-year-old girl
Murder suspect, 26, wipes away tears as he appears in court charged with killing two-year-old girl
- Michael Daymond has been accused of murdering Maya Louise Chappell
- She was airlifted to Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle but died last Friday
- Daymond wiped away tears in court as he was told he was not granted bail
A murder suspect who has been charged with killing a two-year-old girl wiped away his tears as he appeared in court today.
Michael Daymond, 26, has been accused of murdering Maya Louise Chappell on September 28 when she was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle after being found in critical condition.
She died in hospital last Friday evening.
Daymond, who was wearing a grey jumper, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address
Two-year-old Maya Louise Chappell was airlifted to hospital in Newcastle in a critical condition last week where she later died
James Chappell, Maya’s father, posted on Facebook: ‘I love you so much Maya Louise Chappell, you are my life, my earth and my idol and I’ll always look up to you and love you with all my heart. RIP baby girl’
Michael Daymond, 26, has been accused of murdering Maya Louise Chappell on September 28 when she was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle after being found in critical condition
The alleged murderer, of Milton Grove, Shotton Colliery, County Durham, appeared visibly upset and wiped tears away with a tissue during the hearing.
Both counsel, Heather Willis for prosecution and Daniel Smith for defence, told the court that the case will be sent directly to Teesside Crown Court.
Chair of the Bench Alastair White said: ‘You will not have bail. You will be remanded in custody until Monday 10th October where you will appear at Teesside Crown Court.’
Durham Constabulary also confirmed that a 23-year-old woman who was arrested in connection with the investigation has since been released under investigation.
Hours after the incident, a sea of toys, tributes and balloons can be seen outside the home where she was found as people pay their respects
Police forensic teams have been investigating the scene in County Durham where the incident occurred
Daymond was remanded in custody until his next appearance at Teesside Crown Court on Monday, October 10.
Messages of condolence have been left by people who did not know Maya, but have been touched by the tragedy.
Last Friday, Maya’s father James said on Facebook: ‘It breaks my heart to be writing this but sadly my beautiful brave little girl has gained her wings she was too good for this world and as a reward she’s going to play in the stars.
‘I love you so much Maya Louise Chappell, you are my life, my earth and my idol and I’ll always look up to you and love you with all my heart. RIP baby girl.
‘Anyone who would like to pay their respects via social media are more than welcome.’