Police have charged a man with murder following a fatal Whangārei house fire in late April.
The charge follows a months-long homicide investigation into the blaze that occurred on Thomas St in Tikipunga just after 3am on April 29. The property’s sole occupant, 61-year-old Hoani Reuben, also known as John, died at the scene.
Detective Inspector Al Symonds said: “A 48-year-old man already before the court charged with arson has now also been charged with the murder of Mr Reuben.
“He was already remanded in custody and will reappear in Whangārei District Court tomorrow.”
Police are not seeking anyone else in connection with this homicide, Symonds said.
Symonds said police were in contact with Reuben’s family.
“As part of this, we are ensuring that they have support in place.”
“I’d also like to thank our team of detectives, who have worked tirelessly throughout this investigation to bring this case to a close.
“As the matter is now before the court, police are limited in providing further comment.”
