"Update: Petone homicide"
Attributable to Detective Inspector Shane Cotter:
A post-mortem is being undertaken today on the body of the 71-year-old man found dead in Petone on Friday night. We
expect to be able to formally name the deceased tomorrow.
The scene examination at the Jackson Street Flats is still ongoing, and is likely to continue for several more days.
Police would like to clarify that neither the deceased nor the 41-year-old man who was arrested on Saturday are gang
members.
We are also aware of speculation in the community as to the nature of the deceased’s injuries. After speaking to
representatives of the family of the deceased today, Police can now confirm he was decapitated.
Police will not speculate on any potential motive for the killing.
The arrested man will be re-appearing in the Hutt Valley District Court tomorrow.
We want to reassure the community of Petone that this appears to have been an isolated incident, and Police are working
hard to find answers for the family of the deceased.
Police would still like to speak with anyone who can assist with information about what happened.
They can call Wellington Police on (04) 381 2000, or information can be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800
555 111.
ENDS