Homicide investigation after two people found dead in Buller region
This story is still developing. Details may change as more is confirmed.
What happened
Police have launched a homicide investigation after two people were found dead at separate properties in the Buller region on the West Coast.
Emergency services were called to an address on State Highway 7 at Rahu Saddle, between Reefton and Springs Junction, at about 7.50am on Tuesday after concerns were raised for a person. Police say a person was found dead at the property.
Further enquiries led officers to a second address on Maimai Road, where another person was also found dead. St John says it responded to both incidents.
Detective Inspector Geoff Baber of Tasman District Police says police do not believe there is any risk to the public and are not seeking anyone else in relation to the incident. He says police are working to establish exactly what happened.
Baber says: "We acknowledge people will be understandably shaken following this incident." Police say they are supporting the loved ones of those who died and the wider community.
Key facts
- Two people were found dead at separate properties in the Buller region.
- Emergency services were called to State Highway 7 at Rahu Saddle at about 7.50am on Tuesday.
- The second person was found at an address on Maimai Road.
- Police have launched a homicide investigation.
- Police say there is no risk to the public and they are not seeking anyone else.
What you need to know
- Police say there is no risk to the public.
- People in the area may notice an increased police presence while enquiries continue.
- Police say they are providing support to the loved ones of those who died and the wider community.
What happens next
Police say investigators are continuing to gather information to establish exactly what occurred, and further information will be released when available.
Still to be confirmed
- The identities of the two people who died have not been released.
- Police have not said how the two people died or how the deaths are connected.
- Police have not said when further information will be released.
Our summary of what is known so far, written by the Daily Kiwi newsdesk. We update it as the story develops and more is confirmed.