River death of schoolboy Christopher Kapessa to be investigated by major crime team
The death of a schoolboy who fell into a river will be investigated by the major crime team, police have confirmed.
Christopher Kapessa, 13, was pulled from the water after police were called to a stretch of the River Cynon near Fernhill on the afternoon of July 1.
An investigation was launched into the death of the year eight Mountain Ash Comprehensive School pupil but Christopher's mother, Alina Joseph, accused the police of failing to properly investigate what had happened.
She claimed inquiries stopped after a day after it was decided her son's death had been an accident.
The family's complaint has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
On July 1st, a search of the river was made between Mountain Ash and Cwmbach after the incident was reported at around 5.40pm.
The search involved police, firefighters, paramedics and an emergency services helicopter.
Fire crews from Aberdare, Pontyprdd, Barry, Treharris, and Abercynon attended as well as and specialist water rescue teams from Malpas and Ebbw Vale .
Christopher, who was unable to swim, was rushed to Prince Charles Hospital but was then pronounced dead.
A South Wales Police spokesman said the "complex and sensitive investigation" will now be investigated further by the force’s major crime investigation team.
The spokesman also said a teenage boy had voluntarily attended a police station to assist police with their inquiries.
Following the tragic incident various tributes were left at the scene with Christopher described as "the funniest boy in the world".
Tributes left at the scene included "Fly high bro", "We all miss you", and "We love you so much."
Christopher's funeral took place on July 19.
Christopher's white coffin, with a floral tribute of white lillies on top, was carried into St Margaret's Church followed by members of his family.