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Homicide in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland.
Video / NZ Herald
A violent incident at an Auckland tennis club took place in the middle of a busy Saturday and in full view of club members.
Police launched a homicide investigation yesterday after a person died at Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club on Rathlin Street and today are hunting an offender who they believe left the area on foot.
”This is an absolute tragedy, and investigators are working hard to establish the circumstances leading to, and following the murder,” Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin said.
Ken Lau, who lives opposite the club, said the incident occurred in front of club members and people using the neighbouring reserve.
“The court was busy - it’s a vibrant, busy place on a Saturday, people are playing tennis, bowling, biking. There would have been lots of witnesses.”
Police guard the scene of a homicide in Auckland's Blockhouse Bay. Photo / Michael Craig
Lau did not witness the incident but went to the scene soon afterwards. The victim was still alive when ambulance officers arrived but could not be saved, he said.
”We have lived here for 30 years and we’ve never seen anything like it,” Lau said. “We are scared, you know, it is happening in our own yard.”
Police were going to door-to-door on the street seeking footage from residents’ security cameras. Lau said they had asked for footage between 11am and midday yesterday to check for people walking past the club.
“Upon arrival, a man was located with critical injuries,” police said in a statement yesterday.
“Sadly, despite efforts of emergency services, the man died at the scene.”
An apparent pool of blood was visible just outside the tennis courts next to a disposable vape. A police photographer in a boiler suit was focused on this area. Photo / Dean Purcell
Police are still seeking a person involved in the incident.
“Our thoughts are with the victim’s family, and we are providing them with support at this difficult time.
“Police are now making inquiries to understand what has occurred.”
Police officers have cordoned off the area around the Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club on Rathlin St after an "incident" late on Saturday morning. Photo / Dean Purcell
Yesterday, blood was visible just outside the tennis courts next to a disposable vape. A police photographer, wearing a boiler suit, was focused on this area. Armed police were also at the scene.
A man working near the club told the Herald police had come to his work to investigate an alleged assault.
Officers told him they were “looking for someone”, he said.
Police speak to a bystander at Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club. Photo / Dean Purcell
Police asked anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact police as soon as possible.
Information can be provided through 105 or online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 , using ‘Update My Report’ with the reference Operation ELBA, file number 240824/4136.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.