Police are interviewing a large number of witnesses to this morning’s brawl at a Port Waikato address between two warring parties.
As a result of the fight, involving about forty people two men died.
Their names are Hiko Clark, aged 21 and Tahiwi Phillip Herangi, aged 17. Both men were of Tuakau. A preliminary examination of the deceased has found they both have stab wounds. A post mortem examination will take place tomorrow to determine the cause of death. After that police hope to release the bodies to their respective families.
Two other males were taken to hospital as a result of the brawl with stab wounds. One male aged 16 has been treated and discharged, while a 19 year old is recovering from surgery.
Police were alerted to the brawl at the Northern Communications Centre at 3:17am this morning. An incident car was despatched to the scene from Papakura in less than one minute.
O/C Investigation, Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Hallett, says, "There was an immediate response from police to the area which is 52 kilometres from Papakura. Staff also had to deal with foggy driving conditions and a lack of cellphone and radio coverage in the area," says Detective Hallett. Within 15 minutes more incident cars had been despatched along with a senior sergeant and dog team. Detective Hallett was appointed O/C of the investigation within 30 minutes.
Detective Hallett, says, "Police are appealing to the warring factions involved in the fight to remain calm and let the police investigation take its course. A cordon will remain at the scene tonight and police are interviewing a large number of witnesses." Any person who witnessed the fight and has not been spoken to by police should contact the Papakura Police, 295 0200.
Issued by
JAYSON RHODES
POLICE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
027 281 0271