Four quizzed over boy’s death plunge from high-rise flats

The father of a six-year-old boy who died after plunging from the eighth floor of a tower block spoke of his devastation today, describing the youngster as “a lovely little boy who was always full of life”.

Martin Shackleton released a short statement through police after his son Liam fell from the window of a flat in Lindsey Mount, Leeds, on Tuesday.

He said: “Liam was a lovely little boy who was always full of life and loved being in the middle of everything.

“Words cannot begin to describe how much he will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

“I would also like to take the opportunity to thank all the people who have left flowers, toys and messages.

“The many kind words and thoughts have meant a great deal at this very difficult time.”

Following Liam’s death, officials said a review is to be launched into the care of the youngster. Social workers were not involved with the family but the city’s Safeguarding Children Board said it is planning to oversee a probe into Liam’s death.

West Yorkshire Police last night released a woman, two men and a teenage girl, arrested on suspicion of neglecting the schoolboy pending further inquiries.

Police would not reveal the identities of the people who were bailed and only confirmed they were two men aged 57 and 36, a 28-year-old woman and a 16-year-old girl

Neighbours said the youngster moved into the flat recently along with his parents, Martin and Tanya Shackleton, and two brothers and a sister.

It is understood Mr Shackleton’s father was the tenant of the property.

Jane Warden, 51, a care worker, said she saw Liam on the ground after he fell.

She said: “He was lying, face up, with his little arms and legs all twisted. There was no blood but his breathing was very shallow and hislips were blue.

“I knew then he was gone, no little kiddie could survive something like that. Around 10 people had gathered around and someone put a blanket over Liam until the paramedic arrived.

“He scooped Liam up into his arms and put him in the ambulance.”

Miss Warden said she often saw the family at a shopping precinct in the centre of the estate.

“The kids were always very well-behaved and usually had a sweetie or a lollipop in their hand,” she said.

“Their parents must be heartbroken.”

Other neighbours described Mr Shackleton as a “grafter”, saying he worked hard to feed his family.

A makeshift memorial of teddy bears and flowers was left by well-wishers close to the spot where the child hit the ground.

On pink notepaper attached to a teddy bear, a message from Mama and Julie read: “Such a shame, such a young age and to be taken like that.

“Dear Father in Heaven, dear Father above, please guide and protect the ones that we love and guide them from danger. Guide them from fear for this child is so dear.”

Another card said: “Sweet dreams little one love Jennifer, Paula and Mike.”

A third card was written to a “very brave and well-behaved little boy”.

Police were called at about 5.15pm on Tuesday.

Liam was taken to Leeds General Infirmary but died a short time later.