Today Wairarapa Police have launched a homicide inquiry into the death of a 40-year-old Featherston man.
Emergency services, including Police and ambulance, were called to a residential Fitzherbert Street address shortly after midnight.
Detective Inspector Sean Hansen says "The occupant had suffered a vicious beating and was unconscious when found by his neighbour.
"He was subsequently transported by ambulance to Wellington Hospital where he died shortly after 5.00am.
"We are completing a scene examination at the Fitzherbert Street address which I anticipate will take at least the next two to three days.
"In addition to this, there is a second scene which we have also secured in Revan Street which is of interest to us.
"I can confirm a Post Mortem will be conducted at Wellington Hispital tomorrow.
"We are in the early stages of this inquiry, which is progressing well.
"I am seeking the support of the Featherston and greater Wairarapa communities to provide information.
"In particular, we are interested in hearing from anyone who saw any person or vehicle acting susipicously at the southern end of Featherston last night.
"Our focus is on the Fitzherbert, Revan, Wakefield and Watt Streets in Featherston.
"At this stage, we do not believe that this was a random attack.
"We know that there was more than one person involved in this attack and I would encourage anyone who was involved to come forward.
"We are working closely with victim support to support the family who are obviously devastated", says Detective Inspector Hansen.
Police will not be releasing the name of the victim until next of kin can be advised.
Police currently have a team of 18 people working on the inquiry.
ENDS
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