Man dies following Tokaanu assault

A 64-year-old Tokaanu man died in Cranford Hospice, Hasting late yesterday, two weeks after he was seriously assaulted in his home near Turangi early on Saturday, 14 April.

Detective Inspector Mark Loper, Bay of Plenty Police, said that sadly Mr Gordon Alfred Tunnicliffe, never regained consciousness.  He was transferred initially to Waikato and then to the Cranford Hospice facilities in Hastings for care and so that he could be closer to his grieving family.

Mr Tunnicliffe is survived by his sister and her family who wish to retain their privacy at this tragic time.

His funeral will be held later this week in Hastings. Details will follow.

A post mortem will be held on Mr Tunnicliffe tomorrow in Palmerston North.  Taupo Police will consider the results with other aspects of their investigation before seeking advice on whether to lay more serious charges.

A 21-year-old man was arrested by police soon after the assault happened.  He has been charged with assault and remains in custody with his next appearance due in the Taupo District Court on 8 May.