KEY POINTS:
A homicide investigation has been launched after a man's body was found in a Palmerston North house early today. Police said that the body was discovered at an address in Rangitikei Street address at 1.17am.
The house had been cordoned off and a scene examination was being carried out.
Detective Sergeant Brett Calkin said the cause of death was not yet known and a post mortem would be carried out later today.
"A team of detectives are investigating the case in conjunction with scientists from Environmental Science and Research (ESR)."
Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Sheridan said later that police were called to the house by neighbours.
The victim, who was found lying on the floor of the flat, had met a violent death. His identity was not yet known.
Two other men, who were at the address, had been arrested and charged with assault. They would appear in Palmerston North later today.
Mr Sheridan said a team of 16 investigators were working on the homicide.
The priorities were to identify the victim and make further inquiries in relation to the arrested men.
- NZPA
