A man accused of murdering Auckland insect expert Stephen Thorpe has appeared in court.
The 26-year-old was arrested yesterday afternoon near the Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club, where entomologist Stephen Thorpe was found with stab wounds on Saturday.
Thorpe later died at the scene.
Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin announced the latest development this morning.
“Our investigation progressed rapidly yesterday afternoon, with a person of interest taken into custody near the homicide scene.
“We have since charged this man with Stephen’s murder.”
A search warrant was executed overnight at a nearby address on Exminster St as part of the investigation.
Police were seen outside the Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club setting up cordons and a specialist shelter. (Source: 1News)
“Police are not seeking anyone else in connection with the homicide investigation,” Baldwin said.
“This is a positive development in the investigation, but our work here is not done.
“I know there will be questions about why this happened to Stephen, and our team have the important task now of piecing together all the information so the judicial process can be carried out.”
The investigation will involve analysis of CCTV footage and speaking with witnesses, he added.
And Baldwin acknowledged the “ongoing support” of the community.
“Police staff will still be working in the community as part of the ongoing area canvas, and we still need anyone with information or CCTV to contact us,” he said.
Appearing in the Auckland District Court on Thursday afternoon, the 26-year-old entered no plea.
His identity remains suppressed.
He was remanded in custody to next appear in the High Court in Auckland on September 18.