Please attribute to Detective Inspector Rhys Johnston, Northland Police:
Northland Police have now arrested and charged a 15-year-old with murder following the death of a man in Ōkaihau on Monday evening.
The victim was found in a vehicle crashed into a paddock of Imms Road at around 8.25pm and tragically died at the scene.
Police launched a homicide investigation and the arrest of the 15-year-old male was made late yesterday afternoon.
The youth is expected to appear in the Kaikohe Youth Court today.
The victim can now be identified as 62-year-old Ōkaihau local, Michael John Biggins.
Mr Biggin’s was a much loved member of his family and they are devastated by his loss. We are working to support them along with Victim Support.
Police will continue to make enquiries in the Ōkaihau area over the next week and there are a number of people still to be spoken to.
We continue to appeal for anyone with information they think may assist the investigation team to contact Police on 105 quoting Operation Canoe or file number: 210928/6273.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Shelley Nahr/NZ Police