Kaitaia homicide victim named

The Kaitaia house where Barbara Julian was found dead. Photo / Sarah Ivey

The woman whose death yesterday has sparked a homicide inquiry in the Far North town of Kaitaia has been named.

Barbara Catherine Julian, 70, was found dead by neighbours at a house shortly before 5.30pm.

Northland police spokeswoman Sarah Kennett said police were still talking to a 17-year-old male about the homicide.

He had been arrested on an unrelated matter but was considered a person of interest in the homicide investigation.

Inquiries had revealed a male was earlier in the day seen walking away from the Matthews Ave house where Ms Julian was found.

Police also received a call from a resident of the same street about a suspicious person on his property.

Ms Kennett said neighbours found the dead woman in her home last night

She said anyone with information about suspicious activity in the area should call police on (09) 408 6530.

- NZHERALD STAFF

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