26 Jun 2023

Carterton death not a random attack, police say

8:38 pm on 26 June 2023

Unexplained death in Taita, Lower Hutt early on Sunday 26th January 2020.  A Police cordon and crime scene invetsigation tent were in place Monday 27th January 2020.

Photo: RNZ / Patrice Allen

A man has been charged with assault as police investigate a homicide in Carterton.

Area commander Inspector Scott Miller says police were called to Te Kopi Road at around 9am Sunday after a man was found dead at a property.

He was believed to be known to people at the property.

Prior to his death, he was assaulted in a separate incident, Miller said.

A 32-year-old Masterton man is due to appear in Masterton District Court on 27 June charged with assault.

Police have not laid any charges directly relating to the homicide.

Enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the man's death were ongoing but Miller said it was not a random attack.

"At this stage, we are not in a position to release details of the deceased and a post-mortem is due to be completed tomorrow.

"We will look to provide these details in due course," Miller said.

He said a scene examination and a wider search of the property would continue into Tuesday.

"Areas of interest within the property are extensive and it will take time to complete a thorough examination.

"We are continuing to speak with three people from the property who are assisting with our enquiries."

Police ask anyone with information to contact them on 105 referencing event number P055115804.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.