Friday, 13 September 2013 - 1:28pm |
Southern

Police Make Arrest in Murder Inquiry

1 min read

 

 

Police last night arrested an 18-year-old Otago man in relation to the alleged murder of dairy farm worker, Justin McFarlane.

The man is due to appear in the Dunedin District Court today on a charge of murder.

Mr McFarlane was found dead in his home in the rural community of Elderslie, Otago, by a fellow dairy worker in the early hours of Wednesday morning (11 September).

Police say they believe that more than one person is involved in the incident that resulted in the death of Mr McFarlane and inquiries are continuing.

They are also calling for sightings of a grey Nissan Skyline car involved in a short Police pursuit in the early hours of Wednesday morning (11 September) on State Highway One south of Oamaru.

Police say that prior to joining State Highway One the vehicle was travelling on roads in the general area of Elderslie and Maheno inland from Oamaru. Police have since impounded this vehicle.

Police believe the vehicle may be linked to the circumstances surrounding Mr McFarlane's death.

Acting Detective Inspector Colin Blackie says Police believe that the people who were involved in Mr McFarlane's death were known to him and that the incident was not a random act.

The investigation continues to focus on establishing the recent movements of Mr McFarlane and the events leading up to his death as well as interviewing a number of people who had connections with him.

Anyone with information about Mr McFarlane's activities over recent days can contact the Operation Steelers inquiry team directly on the Oamaru Police station number (03) 433 1400 or provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Released by Acting Detective Inspector Colin Blackie, Southern Police