Kia Russell was due to celebrate her son’s third birthday next week with a party for his playmates, friends have revealed in the wake of the teenager’s death.
A college friend of 19-year-old Kia Russell, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “I am shocked and heartbroken.”
Kia was found dead at a house in Swinburne Road, Ipswich, on Wednesday evening. Her son, Kamari, two, also died at the scene.
• More: Teenager who died in Ipswich house is named
The friend added: “Kia was round my house Saturday with her son, we had McDonald’s and we were talking about my son’s birthday party this weekend. Kamari was supposed to be coming along, and Kamari’s third birthday party was going to be next Sunday.”
Lauren Buckley was also a friend of Kia’s after the pair connected at Suffolk New College.
She said: “I will forever cherish our friendship. The last thing I heard of Kia was on Facetime on Wednesday morning, our conversation ended with Kia saying ‘KK and I love you and little man always’, I then said the same back and this was the last time we spoke.
“We shared many memories such as play dates with Kamari, going out for food, and just being in each others’ company - I will miss her and cherish her friendship, as I’m sure others will too.”
Police were called to the property in Swinburne Road at 5pm Wednesday after a woman’s body was discovered by medical crews.
Officers have revealed a young child, believed to be Kamari, was also found at the property and he was treated by paramedics, but sadly died at the scene.
• MORE: Community reacts to tragic death of teenager and her young son in Whitton area of Ipswich
Flowers have been left by shocked residents outside the home and police are maintaining a presence at the property.
One man, who asked to be known only as Hawbash and lives with his family in Swinburne Road, said: “I saw the people who lived there a couple of times but, because I live just round the corner, I didn’t know them.
“The news is shocking to be honest. I don’t really know what is going on yet but it is really sad. They seemed nice people and I’ve never heard anything bad about them.”
A 17-year-old male remains arrested after the incident remains in custody. Officers have reiterated that he has been arrested for actions indirectly connected to the deaths.
An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the two tragic deaths continues.
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