A 67-year-old man appeared in court on a charge of murder after a fatal stabbing last night at Christchuch’s City Mission.
Police were called to the Hereford St emergency night shelter just after 10pm after reports a man had been stabbed.
Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Johnson said a 22-year-old died at the scene.
The 67-year-old was arrested and charged last night.
He made a brief appearance via audio-visual link in the Christchurch District Court this morning before Judge Katie Elkin.
She granted the accused interim name suppression until his next appearance which will be in the High Court at Christchurch.
The alleged murderer was recalled this afternoon after being given time to speak with his lawyer.
At the later appearance, Judge Elkin remanded him in custody until his next date on April 12.
Christchurch City Missioner Corinne Haines said it was a tragic event.
“As a result of the stabbing last night at our men’s emergency night shelter and continuing police investigations, our campus area at 276 Hereford Street has been closed,” Haines said.
“The men with us last night were transferred to another part of our premises.”
The City Mission will close its men’s day programme, learning and development hub, reception and admin areas today while there will be no onsite alcohol and other drug counselling and social worker work.
“It is tragic that this event would happen on our premises,” Haines said.
“We offer our thoughts and prayers to the families of those affected and deeply appreciate the efforts of our amazing staff along with emergency services last night.
“We will offer full support to all our staff and clients who have been affected. We will keep you updated as we have more discussions with the police.”
The organisation’s foodbank will today be across the road at 275 Hereford St but will only be open for clients who have pre-booked a food parcel with their self-serve foodbank or pre-packed parcel service.
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