New Plymouth Incident
Police have arrested a 27-year-old man in connection with an assault that occurred on the evening of Saturday, December 28, near the Ariki Street and Brougham Street area in New Plymouth. The victim, who sustained extensive head injuries, remains in a serious condition at Wellington Hospital.
The suspect has been bailed and is scheduled to appear in the New Plymouth District Court on January 8, 2025.
Police are seeking assistance from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or any disorder in the area between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on Saturday night. They are particularly interested in receiving images, videos, CCTV, or dashcam footage.
Information can be provided online under “Update Report,” by calling 105, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111. Please reference case number 241229/0948.
Lower Hutt Incident
In an unrelated case, Police are appealing for information regarding a serious assault in Lower Hutt that took place around 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 28, near the public toilets next to Avalon Park Pavilion.
Investigators are particularly keen to hear from anyone who saw a young Caucasian male, aged 14-17, with blonde hair, wearing a light-blue sweatshirt and black pants. Witnesses who observed him behaving suspiciously or saw him entering or leaving the toilet block on Fairway Drive, along with the direction he went, are urged to come forward.
Police are currently speaking with an individual in relation to this case, and the victim is being supported.
Anyone with information can contact Police online or call 105, using reference number 241228/9276.
