Homicide investigation after Christchurch assault victim dies

Christchurch Police are now treating a serious assault in Linwood last month as a homicide, following the death of the victim overnight.

The victim has been named as Michelle Mary Lawrence, aged 41, of Christchurch.

Ms Lawrence died late last night [Saturday 30 June] at Christchurch Hospital. A post-mortem examination is expected to be held tomorrow [Monday].

She had been in hospital since the incident, which is believed to have occurred some time before 1.00am on Sunday 10 June.

A 52-year old Christchurch man, Timothy Joseph Foley, appeared in court on 11 June charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and is due to reappear on Tuesday [3 July].

Detective Senior Sergeant Corrie Parnell says the incident is now being treated as a homicide, and it is expected additional charges will be laid.

STATEMENT FROM FAMILY

The following statement is issued on behalf of the family of Ms Lawrence

"The Lawrence family would like to thank Michelle's' close friends, and the staff in ICU and Ward 28 at Christchurch Hospital for their wonderful care of Michelle and support to those close to her.

"We would also like to thank Victim Support and especially the Christchurch Police for the care and support offered to us.

"Michelle was a much loved integral part of our family, a wonderful mother, Nana, daughter, grand daughter, sister and aunty who loved life and lived it to the fullest.  She will be dearly missed by all who loved and knew her.

"At this time we ask the media to please respect this is a very hard time for us and thank them in advance for respecting our privacy."