Ashburton investigation confirmed as homicide

Canterbury Police have confirmed that the suspicious death of Sina Nerisa Solomona in Ashburton on Saturday is being treated as a homicide enquiry.

Detective Senior Sergeant John Rae says that based on evidence gathered to date in the enquiry, the death is now regarded as a homicide.

A post-mortem examination on the deceased was still in progress late this afternoon, and Police would not be releasing any further information on the post-mortem today.

Enquiries in Ashburton have been continuing throughout the day, including a forensic examination of the Cass Street residence where the incident occurred, and a ground search for items of interest that may be related to the death. The scene examination will continue tomorrow.

Detective Senior Sergeant Rae says a weapon has been located at the Cass Street scene, but at this stage Police are not in a position to elaborate on what the item is, nor to confirm whether it was used in the attack on the victim.

Police are also continuing to speak to associates of the victim and people who have come forward with information.

"It is still extremely important that anyone who has information about the incident, or who may have seen anything in the vicinity of Cass Street, contacts Police as soon as possible," Detective Senior Sergeant Rae says.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Christchurch police on (03) 3637400.

Alternatively, to provide information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.