Please attribute to Detective Inspector Darryl Sweeney, Canterbury CIB:
Canterbury Police have arrested a 54-year-old man for murder and aggravated burglary after a 27-year-old woman was found dead in her Exeter Street, Merivale home around 11:40am yesterday morning.
Police moved swiftly to locate the man, who will appear in Christchurch District Court on Monday 9 April.
My deepest sympathies go out to the family of this young woman, and Police will be ensuring that they are supported following their tragic loss.
Our police team of highly experienced and dedicated investigators have worked tirelessly to ensure justice for the victim and her family, and will continue to do so.
Police will not be releasing the woman’s identity until we can be sure that all family members have been informed of her death. A post mortem examination will occur on Monday.
A team of experts will today continue to piece together information, with detectives and forensic specialists examining two scenes in Christchurch – one in Exeter Street and one in Breezes Road. Residents in those areas can expect to see a continued Police presence over the next few days.
Two motor vehicles have also been seized for examination.
No one else is being sought in relation to the woman’s death.
We’d like to hear from anyone who was in the wider Exeter Street area overnight Friday to Saturday that may have heard or seen anything, or anyone, suspicious.
Please don’t hesitate to contact Canterbury Police on 03 363 7400 if you may have information. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111.
Due to the matter now being before the Court, Police are unable to comment further.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre