Homicide investigation launched after death of Ashburton man

Emergency services were called to an address in Netherby about 11.45pm yesterday. Photo / File

A homicide investigation has been launched after the death of a 23-year-old man in Ashburton overnight.

Emergency services were called to a property in McDonald St, Netherby about 11.45pm in the Canterbury town, where they located a man with critical injuries.

He died at the scene a short time later.

The property has been cordoned off and a forensic examination is under way. The man's body will soon be moved from the scene, to undergo a medical examination tomorrow.

Officers are speaking to people who were present at the time of the incident.

Police believe the death may be connected to a party in neighbouring suburb Tinwald, where people were reportedly threatened.

Tinwald is located across the Ashburton/Hakatere River, less than 4km from where the death occurred.

Police are appealing for any information about a party in Tinwald last night.

Detective Inspector Michael Ford said police were working closely with the family of the man who died and providing them with support.

Further information would be released as it became available, police said in a statement.

• Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or can assist with the investigation is urged to contact police on 105 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.