Unexplained sudden domestic related death update III
As detectives work to establish the circumstances surrounding the unexplained sudden death of a man involved in an
alleged violent domestic incident in Hamilton overnight an independent out of district investigator is being appointed
to ensure the integrity of the investigation.
Waikato District Commander, Superintendent Win van der Velde, said the investigation is still in its early stages but
initial indications are a 26-year-old man, who was trespassed from the property in June, has gone to the home of his
ex-girlfriend and gained entry into the home.
"Initial interviews suggest when he gained entry into the house an altercation has developed between this intruder and a
male occupant of the house."
Mr van der Velde said when Police arrived they found the two men were still fighting and officers placed the man
identified as the intruder in handcuffs.
"After a very short period of time, as they were making arrangements for the intruder to be transported back to the
Hamilton Station our staff became concerned about the man's wellbeing and asked a nurse present at the dwelling to check
the man while calling for ambulance staff to attend.
"Despite the best efforts of the responding medical staff the man was unable to be revived and he was pronounced dead at
the scene. The other male involved in the altercation, a 23-year-old man from the house was taken to Waikato Hospital
for a medical examination and he and the other occupants of the house are assisting us with our enquiries."
Mr van der Velde said in addition to the investigation into the man's death which incorporates the scene examination
currently underway and a post-mortem that will need to be carried out, the Independent Police Conduct Authority has been
advised and the death has been reported to the Coroner.
"To ensure the independence of the investigation a senior, out of district, investigator has been appointed to head the
enquiry and oversee its completion. What has occurred is indeed a tragedy and underscores the importance Police place on
domestic violence."
Mr van der Velde said Police are working with the family of the deceased and at this time I would like to express the
Police's condolences to his family for their loss.
End