A 23-year-old man has been charged with murder following the death of 65-year-old Simon Bird at his home in Northland, Wellington.
Mr Bird was found deceased at his Albemarle Road property on Tuesday, 1 April, after a friend, concerned by not hearing from him for several days, conducted a welfare check.
Detective Inspector Nick Pritchard confirmed the arrest and said the accused appeared in the Wellington District Court today. Police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the death, including the relationship between Mr Bird and the accused.
“This is a positive development for his family and friends, but there are still many unanswered questions that we are working hard to answer,” Pritchard said.
A scene examination continues at Mr Bird’s residence, and investigators are appealing for public assistance.
Mr Bird was last seen alive on Thursday, 27 March. Police are asking anyone who saw suspicious activity on Albemarle Road that day, or who had contact with Mr Bird or his silver Honda Odyssey in the week prior, to come forward.
“We also want to speak to anybody who knew Mr Bird, as well as those who saw him, or his vehicle in the last week,” Pritchard said. “This includes any CCTV or dashcam footage you may have of him or his silver Honda Odyssey.”
Information can be provided online, by calling 105 and referencing file number 250401/4530 or Operation North. Anonymous tips can be submitted via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.