Man charged over assaulting dead man

Photo / File

A man has appeared in court charged with the assault of his girlfriend's former partner, who died whilst in police custody after being called to a fight between the pair.

Adam Palmer, 26, died shortly after midnight on Wednesday.

Police were called to his ex-girlfriend's Hamilton home after a fight broke out between Mr Palmer and her current partner.

A 23-year-old man appeared in Hamilton District Court yesterday charged with assault.

Police removed handcuffs from Mr Palmer after his arrest when they became concerned for his wellbeing. He died soon after at the Dinsdale property.

Detective Inspector Sue Schwalger said a post-mortem examination had been completed in Auckland today.

"We have received the preliminary findings of this examination into the cause of death. However, the coroner is not prepared to release these until further investigations have been made.

An out of district investigator has been appointed to head the police enquiry into the Mr Palmer's death and the Independent Police Conduct Authority has been notified.