Nelson police continue to investigate death of John Murray "Muzza" Morton

A team of Nelson detectives, assisted by forensic and fingerprint experts from Christchurch, is continuing to investigate the circumstances leading to the death of John Murray “Muzza” Morton.  Mr Morton died overnight on Wednesday 3 August 2016.
 
Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Johnston said a post mortem was completed yesterday, which confirmed Mr Morton's death is a homicide.  
 
"The number and nature of Mr Morton's injuries suggest a very violent attack and the investigation team is determined to piece together exactly what happened. Extra resources are being brought in from other police districts and the Nelson team will be joined by further investigators on Monday," says Mr Johnston.
 
"Police are keen to hear from anyone that uses the reserve area or may have recently taken photographs of the area of QEII Drive opposite the skate park - particularly the boats that are moored there, as this will help us with our reconstruction of the scene and recent activity there."    
 
"I believe people in the Nelson community may hold the keys to unlock this mystery and I urge anyone with information about what happened to Mr Morton to come forward and help us hold to account the person or persons responsible for this senseless crime."   
 
"While we are still to determine how Mr Morton came to be attacked, there is no reason to believe that anyone else is in danger.   This is however a good time to remind everyone to think about their personal security at all times, and to keep homes and vehicles locked and report any suspicious incidents as they occur."
 
"Nelson is a safe place to live and with the assistance of everyone in the community we can keep it that way."
 
Anyone with information that may be relevant to the investigation into Mr Morton's death is asked to contact Nelson Police on 03 546 3840.  Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
 
ENDS
 
Issued by Police Media Centre.