UPDATED 4.38PM: Police have named the five-year-old autistic Christchurch boy who died after suffering serious head injuries.

Leon Jayet-Cole died in hospital last night and police have since launched a homicide investigation.

Emergency services were called to his family's home in the suburb of Papanui at 1:30pm on Wednesday.

Detective Senior Sergeant Scott Anderson said police and Victim Support are working with his immediate family who are extremely upset.

He also said the school he attended is also providing support to staff and students.

Police are focusing on Leon’s activities throughout the day on Wednesday prior to his admission to Christchurch Hospital.