Napier detectives this morning arrested a Hutt Valley man for the abduction and murder of six-year-old Teresa Cormack.
The 43-year-old man is to appear in the Lower Hutt District Court at 2.15pm today charged with abduction, sexual violation and murder.
Teresa disappeared on 19 June, 1987 while walking to school in the Napier suburb of Maraenui. Her body was found eight days later at Whirinaki Beach, 6km north of the city.
Detective Sergeant Brian Schaab, Napier CIB, said the arrest resulted from information recently received by the homicide inquiry team.
"I can’t comment on the nature of the fresh information or how our inquiry unfolded, but it’s great news."
Mr Schaab worked on the original inquiry team and has headed the investigation since it was reopened in August last year.
"The arrest is an enormous relief to Teresa’s family and all those who have worked on the case since she first disappeared," Mr Schaab said.
"Teresa’s parents have been briefed on developments," he said. "It’s a very emotional time for them. They still have unanswered questions.
"They are very appreciative of the support they have had from many people over the years but have asked me that their privacy be respected at this time while they get to grips with today’s developments."
Media conference: Det Sgt Brian Schaab will be available at Lower Hutt Police Station, Kings Crescent, Lower Hutt, for a media briefing at midday today.
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