An elementary school makes sure to always remember a “beautiful” and “cheeky” murdered five-year-old.
Logan Mwangi was murdered by his mother, stepfather and a 14-year-old boy in Bridgend County in July 2021.
Even today, the communities of Sarn and Aberkenfig find ways to commemorate him.
A new report shows previous injuries found on Logan by a doctor were not shared with proper authorities before his death.
A Child Practice Review (CPR) has examined how various agencies dealt with Logan’s family in the 17 months leading up to his death
- Mother, stepfather and teenager convicted of boy’s murder
- Murder charge of boy, 5, thrown in river
There are about 200 students in Tondu Primary School, but it is clear that one is missing.
Logan Mwangi was a student at the school, surrounded by friends and teachers who loved him.
His former principal, Jane Prelogauskas, said he was “a beautiful little boy” with “a cheeky smile” who “loved to talk”.
As you enter the school you are greeted by photos of that smile, along with Logan’s name in his own handwriting – his little hand is still learning to stay still as he forms his letters.
It has been an incredibly difficult 16 months for Jane Prelogauskas and her staff trying to explain to young children why one of their friends is no longer there.
She said: “Losing a child is one of the worst things that can ever happen to anyone, especially in a school.
“So we wanted to remember him and the kids wanted to have a little yard that they could use if they lose loved ones or pets, so we have a nice yard for him outside.”
In this garden there is a bench with the inscription “We sit here every day to remind ourselves that you are never far away”.
Ms Prelogauskas added: “It’s a tangible way for them to find a little place when they need a little time to sit and think and remember and they have that place.
“And also for the staff to always fill it up with flowers because the staff went through a lot losing Logan. Because he was part of our school family.”
In the days and weeks following the five-year-old’s death, people rallied, leaving many teddy bears, balloons and other tributes on the lawn near the River Ogmore.
Most of them were removed this summer and Valleys to Coast Housing, which manages the land, said it was “respectful of local community feelings” but some were “weathered”.
A few new ones have been added including a striking painting of Logan sitting between the wet grass and rocks with messages including one that reads “Justice for Logan”.
There is still discussion about a more permanent memorial to the boy, with hopes one could be erected in the new year.
Wherever that ends, Logan’s classmates know he looks down on them because Tondu Elementary School named a star after the five-year-old.
It’s one near Ursa Minor, the Ursa Minor constellation, and Logan’s star is said to be one that’s “extra bright.”
In Sarn, where the little boy lived, Logan Mwangi is still in the hearts and minds of the people.
The house he used to live in is no longer boarded up and the housing association that manages the property is hoping it will have new tenants soon.
A spokesman for Valleys to Coast Housing Association said: “We remain vigilant and respectful of the feelings of the community and share our deepest sympathy with all affected by this tragic event.
“We are grateful for the support of the neighbors, have prepared this apartment calmly and sensitively for new tenants and hope that they can settle into the community in peace.”
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