A mother has appeared in court charged with murdering her son and attempting to murder her father. Karolina Zurawska, 41, from Gendros, Swansea, is charged with murdering Alexander Zurawski, six, whose body was discovered at a property in Gendros on August 29 last year.
The defendant is also accused of attempting to murder her father, Krzysztof Siwi, 67, on the same day. Appearing at Swansea Crown Court on Friday morning via video link from custody, Zurawska was not asked to enter pleas to the two charges against her.
During the short administrative hearing, Judge Paul Thomas vacated the trial date of February 17 to allow for further reports to go ahead. A mention hearing for the case will take place instead on February 17 at the court. For the latest court reports, sign up to our crime newsletter here
Judge Thomas told the court: “I hope on that date there will be progress in one way or another, if only in terms of fixing a new trial date.” Mike Jones KC appeared for the prosecution during the hearing, while John Hipkin KC represented Zurawska.
In a statement issued by South Wales Police following his death, Alexander’s family described him as a “very kind child”. They said: “Alexander was always well-behaved and never naughty.”
“He was very clever and very mature for his age. He had great understanding of facts. Alexander was always helpful, always eager to assist with cooking and cleaning. Alexander spoke both English and Polish and would often correct his parents with their English if they got words wrong. He was amazing.”
The family also thanked the emergency services who attended the scene. Speaking at the time, Bethan Peterson, headteacher of Whitestone Primary School, said they were “devastated” to hear of Alexander’s death.
She said: “Alexander was a delightful, determined little boy whose tenacity and positive demeanour ensured his success in all he undertook. He was an extremely loved and popular boy amongst his peers, staff and with all who knew him. He will be sadly missed.”