Shortly after 7pm last night (Sunday, 13 July) Police were called to Goring Street, Opotiki where they found a large number of people fighting.
A few minutes later Ambulance received a report of a man collapsed in nearby King Street. The 22-year-old man was taken to Whakatane Hospital in a critical condition but died a short time later and an investigation is now underway.
A post mortem examination will be undertaken this morning. At this stage Police will be making no comment in regard to injuries.
Two properties in Goring Street are currently cordoned off and will be subject to forensic examinations later today.
No further information is available this morning. A further media update will be provided early afternoon.
In the meantime anyone with information about tonight’s incident is asked to contact Whakatane Police on 07 308 5255. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.