North Shore Police investigating the death of 77 year old Mrs Doreen REED have today arrested a 15 year old male and charged him with the murder of the elderly woman.
The youth is now in police custody and is to appear in the North Shore Youth Court tomorrow.
Police launched a homicide enquiry last Sunday [14 January 2007] after the deceased widow's body was discovered by friends, inside her Eskdale Road home in the suburb of Birkdale.
A post-mortem examination completed yesterday revealed that the deceased victim died as a result of multiple stabbings inflicted to major organs in her body.
"The enquiry team is satisfied with this early breakthrough and the progress being made in this investigation, but there is still much to be done. Our thoughts go out to family and friends of Mrs Doreen REED, and the local community at this time," Inspector WOOD said.
"Today's arrest is the result of relentless enquiries over the past 48 hours, carried out by a dedicated team of professional police officers."
"The public's reported sightings of the victim's Green, Rover Hatchback, have been excellent."
"Numerous interviews have also been completed as a result of the reliable information that is being provided. We continue to welcome this invaluable assistance from the public."
"No decision's been made yet on when the body of the deceased will be released for burial."
"Police reiterate that there is no cause for undue personal alarm as a result of this incident. We encourage everyone to regularly ensure their own individual safety and security needs," said Inspector WOOD.
ENDS:
Media Contact:
Kevin Loughlin
Police Media Advisor
Mobile 027 281 0271