'Shine bright our ray of sunshine': 1-year-old killed by dog in Christchurch named

Author: Herald Reporters,
Publish Date: Sun, 16 Aug 2026, 1:33pm

The parents of a toddler killed in a Christchurch dog attack have paid tribute to their “wee sunshine” following his tragic death at home.

Emergency services were called to an Aranui address at 4.45pm on Friday following reports a child had sustained critical injuries after being bitten by a dog.

“Despite the immediate efforts of first responders, and a member of the household, the child sadly died at the scene,” Detective Senior Sergeant Dan Overend said.

“The dog involved was known to the occupants of the address and lived at the property.”

Police have since named the boy as 1-year-old Sonny-Charles Watson.

His parents, Greg Watson and Jordan Doherty, have expressed their shock and asked for time to process what’s happened in a tribute on social media last night.

“It is with great sadness that we have lost our wee sunshine,” they wrote.

“Sonny was not just the light of our lives but everyone he came in contact with.”

They described him as “the most beautiful little boy”, who was “full of love and laughter for everyone”.

“We appreciate all the love and messages from everyone.

Greg Watson (from left) and Jordan Doherty, the parents of 1-year-old Sonny-Charles Watson, who was killed in a dog attack in Christchurch have paid tribute to their "wee sunshine". Photo / Givealittle

“I ask for you to give us some time and respect to [grieve] before we get back to everyone.”

Details on a tangi service for their boy – identified as Sonny - would be shared in due time, they said.

“Feel free to send message of love but we will not be responding until the time is right.

“Fly high sunshine, love you forever.”

Police have asked the public to respect the family’s privacy by refraining from speculation regarding the circumstances of the incident.

A Givealittle page was set up last night by a close friend to support the couple.

Raising $11,960 at the time of writing, the friend said they hoped to ease the financial burden on the couple as they grieved.

“Our dear friends Greg and Jordan are facing the unimaginable following the sudden and heartbreaking loss of their 1-year-old son,” they wrote.

“His beautiful presence touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”

Tributes have been left outside the house where the attack happened. Photo / Anna Leask

‘Very sad situation’

Yesterday, Overend confirmed the dog had been removed from the Basingstoke St property.

He said police were in close contact with Christchurch City Council animal control as they continued their inquiries.

“This includes speaking with those who live at the home, as well as providing them with support.”

Christchurch East MP Reuben Davidson told RNZ the death was a tragedy for the family and the wider community.

Councillor for the Burwood Ward Kelly Barber said his first thoughts were with the child’s family.

“It’s a very sad situation, and my first thoughts were with the family and how devastated they must be at the loss of their child,” he said.

“I also hope there is something we can learn from the ongoing police investigation that reduces the likelihood of this ever happening again.”

Safekids, the national injury prevention service of Starship Children’s Health, issued a statement about the death.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of the tamaiti in Christchurch, and our heartfelt condolences go out to their whānau, friends and community at this incredibly difficult time,” the agency said.

“There are no words that can ease the pain of losing a child.

“Our thoughts are with everyone grieving such a devastating loss.”