Custody for murder accused

The man accused of murdering a woman in Bell Street on Friday is to remain behind bars until Monday.

The 64-year-old appeared in the Tauranga District Court today charged with murder.

Police arriving at Tauranga District Court with the alleged offender. 

Police at the crime scene on Bell Street today.

No plea was entered on the charge and interim name suppression was granted until Monday, July 23, to allow time for family members to be notified.

Details of the victim have also been suppressed until Monday.

Police charged the man last night after a woman’s body was found outside a residential property on Bell Street in Judea shortly before 2pm.

Part of Bell Street remains cordoned off and a tent has been erected to preserve the scene for a forensic examination.

Police say once the examination is complete the woman’s body can be removed so a post mortem can be carried out to determine cause of death.

Despite the crime scene being under police guard overnight, access to resident’s homes was maintained for those who live in the street.

Police are still working to locate and notify the victim’s next of kin and her details will not be released until the process is complete.

Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is asked to contact Tauranga Police on 07 577 4300.

Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.