Homicide investigation after arson

Christchurch Police have confirmed that the investigation into the death of a 28 year old man in a house fire at Oxford on Wednesday is now a homicide investigation.

Two men have been arrested today on charges unrelated to the death.

The deceased has yet to be formally identified but is believed to be Sameera Chandrasena, a 28 year old Sri Lankan who was the sole occupant of the house on Domain Road, Oxford, which was extensively damaged by fire on Wednesday morning.

Detective Inspector Virginia Le Bas says a post mortem carried out yesterday indicated that the deceased had died as a result of injuries consistent with an assault, and was dead prior to the fire commencing.

"As a result of our enquiries two men were arrested early this morning on charges which are not related to the death," Detective Inspector Le Bas says. "Both men were known to the deceased.

"One man has been arrested on unrelated assault charges and was remanded in custody until 5 March after an appearance this morning. The other man has been detained on immigration matters.

"The enquiry is continuing and we expect further charges relating to the death and the arson will be laid."

Detective Inspector Le Bas says a search will be conducted today in the vicinity of Bealey Avenue, Springfield Road, Holly Road and Manchester Street in St Albans, Christchurch, looking for items of clothing and property which may have been discarded.

"If anyone in that area finds any unusual items or has seen any suspicious activity in the early hours of Wednesday 23rd, we would ask them to contact Christchurch police on (03) 3637400," Detective Inspector Le Bas says.

A team of 25 staff are working on the investigation, with investigators expected to continue the scene examination at the Oxford property for several days.

Media Briefing: Detective Inspector Le Bas will hold a media briefing this afternoon:
• Saturday 25 February
• 3.00pm
• Papanui Police Station, Cnr Mary Street and Main North Road