The parents of a three-year-old boy who died following a crash on the Gold Coast have been charged with manslaughter, months after the tragic incident that unfolded at a Queensland police station.

According to 9News, the child, Caden Case, was critically injured when the car he was travelling in veered off the road and crashed into bushland near Stapylton at about 5am on Saturday, October 25, 2025. He was in the vehicle with his father, Samuel Ian Paterson, his mother, Aneshia Case, and another child.

Caden and his mother were transported to Beenleigh Police Station by a passerby immediately after the crash. Despite efforts by police officers who administered first aid in the station foyer, the boy could not be revived. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police later located Paterson and the second child at a residential address in Beenleigh. The other child was taken to hospital for medical assessment and was later discharged.

After months of what investigators described as complex forensic and mechanical examinations, authorities announced this week that they believe the child’s mother was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash. Detective Acting Inspector Kent Ellis said determining who was behind the wheel required extensive analysis of physical evidence, CCTV footage and digital material, 9News reported.

The 23-year-old mother from Labrador was arrested at Loganlea and has been charged with manslaughter as a domestic violence offence against a child, trafficking in dangerous drugs and driving without a licence.

Paterson, who has remained in custody since October, has also been charged with manslaughter as a domestic violence offence against a child and trafficking in dangerous drugs, according to 9News.

Detective Ellis described the case as distressing for the child’s extended family and confronting for officers who attempted to save his life at the police station. Both accused are expected to face court in Queensland as investigations continue.