Doctor charged over death of boy, three

A hospital doctor is due to appear before magistrates today, accused of killing a three-day-old boy.

A hospital doctor is due to appear before magistrates today, accused of killing a three-day-old boy.

Kosalakumar Karunaratne, 36, has been charged with the manslaughter of the child, who died at the Liverpool Women's Hospital in February.

Merseyside police began an investigation earlier this year at the request of Liverpool coroner Andre Rebello. Yesterday Dr Karunaratne, who was born in Sri Lanka, was arrested and taken to the city's Admiral Street Police station. He was charged and released on bail.

A spokeswoman for Liverpool Women's Hospital said Dr Karunaratne had been suspended from duty.

"The hospital learned today that as a result of inquiries the police have made, a member of staff has been charged with a serious offence," she added.

"The hospital has fully co-operated with and assisted the police throughout [the inquiry]."

The doctor, who lives in Anfield, will appear before Liverpool magistrates today.

A spokesman for the General Medical Council said: "We are aware of the case and have been working closely with police and the hospital."