Father's death adds to family tragedy

The Avonhead property where Sung Eun Cho and two daughters were found dead. Photo / Simon Baker

The husband and father of a Korean family whose bodies were discovered in Christchurch last week has also been found dead.

Young Jin Baek, 44, was found dead in the Christchurch suburb of Avonhead yesterday morning, police said.

Police have confirmed he was the husband of Sung Eun Cho, 43, and father of Yeon Jae Baek, 17, known as Holly, and Yeon Sue Baek, 13, known as Kelly, who were found dead last Wednesday.

Police are not seeking anyone else in connection with his death, which has been referred to the coroner.

Mr Baek's wife and daughters were found dead at an Apsley Drive home in Avonhead after Mrs Cho failed to keep an appointment.

Christchurch Korean Society president said last week that Mr Baek lived in Korea, away from his wife and daughters, who had been in New Zealand for about five or six years.

He had arrived in New Zealand last Friday after he was contacted about the deaths.

Last week, neighbour Patricia Mellon told the Herald that she'd heard the property where the women were found had been sold last week for "an enormous amount" less than what it was advertised for to a couple who lived nearby.

Mrs Mellon said the mother kept to herself - she had seen her only once, when she was tidying the gardens.

- NZPA, NZ HERALD STAFF