Police investigate killing of 'harmless' man

Police are investigating a homicide after a man died in Whangarei Hospital following a brutal attack on Friday night.

Stanley Victor Wells, 41, of Otangarei, has been described by friends and family as "harmless" and "passive", and was well known and liked by the community, police said.

Detective Inspector Chris Scahill said it is believed that some time after 10.30pm on Friday, Mr Wells was viciously assaulted not far from his Matai St home.

Soon after 11pm, Mr Wells, in a disoriented state, knocked on a door of another house in the street, seeking assistance.

"At that point Mr Wells was still conscious, but a number of facial injuries were evident," said Mr Scahill.

Mr Wells was taken to hospital by ambulance. Examination at the hospital revealed he had suffered a number of significant injuries to the head.

He died yesterday afternoon. A post mortem to determine the cause of death was due to be carried out today.

Whangarei Police have set up an operation headquarters, and are asking anyone with information about the attack on Mr Wells to ring the inquiry team on (09) 430 4591.

About 40 police are working on the investigation.

- HERALD ONLINE STAFF