press release 9
Puriri Street fire
Detective Inspector Greg Williams says that the investigation into the deaths of four people in a house fire at Puriri Street last Sunday/ Monday is still 'very broad' as police still have to wait for toxicology results and assess the large amount of evidence they have gathered.
"We have determined that all four occupants of Puriri Street house were alive when the fire started," he says. "However we must wait for Toxicology test results to confirm causes of death."
Detective Inspector Williams says that there is no evidence of any injures to the bodies other than those suffered during the fire.
Examination of the house has shown there was no sign of forced entry.
Police confirm that Petrol was used as an accelerant in the fire.
Family members of the Tomonaga and Hanai families have arrived from Japan. There will be private funerals.
The families do not wish to release photographs or talk to media. They have declined to write a statement at this time however they express their gratitude to everyone for their concerns.
Police inquiry team will be working through the weekend, but hope to finish with the scene and release the house to the owner tomorrow.
Detective Inspector Greg Williams says he does not expect any more press releases to be issued for some days.
Over Easter, please phone main number 03 363 7400 and ask to be put through to Detective Sergeant Will McIvor.