A man who died following an “altercation” at a home in Waitara yesterday has today been named by police.
He was 17-year-old Te Omeka Pairana Akariri-Buckley of Bell Block.
Police were called to the scene on Strange St following reports a person had been “seriously injured in an altercation” around 12.45am on Tuesday.
A homicide investigation was launched, and a 25-year-old man was arrested at the scene and later charged with murder.
“Police would like to extend our sympathies to his family at this incredibly difficult time, and we will remain in contact with them over the course of the investigation and trial,” Detective Senior Sergeant Debra Gower said.
He appeared before the New Plymouth District Court yesterday and was due to reappear in the High Court in New Plymouth on Friday, August 16.
Police remained at the home while they carried out a a scene examination, which was due to conclude today.
A post-mortem would be completed in the coming days, Gower said.
“We are continuing to piece together the events that occurred and would like to hear from anyone who has information that could assist our enquiries.”