A trip to the beach for Savva (5) was a favourite event for him and his family. But a Saturday afternoon family trip to Piha would quickly turn to tragedy as Savva ran ahead toward Laird Thomson Track at the northern end of the beach shortly after the family arrived. Although just a little ahead of his parents, the lively five year-old, who was fond of running, raced into the windy bush track where he slipped down the side of a steep track, Tragically he died in the fall.

A Givealittle page has been set up to help the family. Extra funds will go to help to help families of other autistic children.