Lower Hutt Police are investigating the serious assault of a 56-year-old man in his home in Kairanga Street, Wainuiomata.
The man received serious head injuries and is now unconscious in Hutt Hospital. His condition is described as critical but stable.
Detective Senior Sergeant Soni Malaulau, head of Lower Hutt CIB, says the assault happened about 4.30pm yesterday, Wednesday 22 March.
"It appears that an argument developed between the victim and his stepson, resulting in the victim being physically assaulted," Detective Senior Sergeant Malaulau says.
The 34-year-old stepson, Peter John Watson, then left the address, returned a short time later to gather his belongings, and has then walked away from the house, walking south along Kairanga Street.
Peter Watson is described as a male Caucasian. He was last seen wearing camouflage army pants, a black and white sweatshirt with white stripes down the sleeves, black steel-capped boots and carrying a long bag.
"Peter's family is concerned for his whereabouts and are appealing for him to contact police," Detective Senior Sergeant Malaulau says.
Police would like to hear from anyone who knows where Peter Watson is, or who saw a person fitting his description, or heard an argument in the Kairanga Street area late yesterday afternoon.
A forensic scene examination of the address was completed today and officers will be conducting an Area Canvass of the immediate neighbourhood later today to see if anyone saw or heard anything in the 3pm to 5pm period yesterday.
Any inquiries to Detective Sergeant Michael Sears or Detective Senior Sergeant Soni Malaulau of the Lower Hutt CIB on 5602600.
Ends