Teenager’s death after altercation in Waitara leads to murder charge for 25-year-old man

A 25-year-old man has been charged with murder following the death of a teen in Taranaki early this morning.

Emergency services were called to a property on Strange St, Waitara, about 12.45am on Tuesday after reports a person had been seriously injured in an altercation.

“The victim was transported to hospital in a critical condition, but later died from his injuries,” Detective Inspector Brent Matuku said.

Rakai Jacob Thompson was arrested at the scene and subsequently charged with murder of a 17-year-old.

He briefly appeared in New Plymouth District Court this afternoon on the charge.

According to court documents, Thompson resided at the address in Waitara where the alleged offending took place. He was remanded into custody by consent ahead of his next appearance on August 16 in the High Court.

“Police remain at the address conducting a scene examination,” Matuku said.

“Police are speaking with a number of witnesses but would like to hear from anyone who has not yet come forward with information.”

Anyone who can assist police inquiries is asked to contact 105 and reference the file number 240730/5332.