Central Queensland police say they are treating the death of a toddler who was initially reported to have drowned as suspicious.
An investigation has commenced into the death of four-year-old Tarrin-Macen O’Sullivan in late August at Munbura, near Sarina.
Police said at the time that the matter was reported as a suspected drowning in a residential pool.
Detective Inspector Tom Armitt said fresh information had caused police to open a new line of inquiry.
"Originally, the matter was reported to police as a suspected drowning in a pool at the home of the child," Inspector Armitt said.
"However, post-mortem and scientific examinations have concluded that that cause of death was inconsistent with drowning and, as such, police have commenced a homicide investigation.
"The circumstances surrounding how and why that child was located in the pool remain unknown."
Mackay detectives from the Child Protection Investigation Unit's State Child Trauma Unit are investigating the matter.
Police believe boy's body was placed in the pool
Inspector Armitt said the cause of death was still unknown.
"However, it's believed that the child was deceased prior to being placed [in] the pool," he said.
Inspector Armitt said any homicide was significant but that police were treating the case with greater sensitivity given the age of the deceased.
"We're dealing with the death of a four-year-old boy and, obviously, a small child in the care — and relies heavily on the care of — other people, adults," he said.
"So his death is treated with the utmost seriousness.
"Obviously it's a small, vulnerable person, which is why we're spending so much time and attention on this investigation."
Anyone with information has been urged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 to assist police with their inquiries.
