Police launch homicide investigation into Upper Hutt woman's death

Police are commencing a homicide investigation following the death of a 38-year-old woman in Upper Hutt last week.

Mary Donnelly was found dead in her Ebdentown Street flat by family members at around 10:15pm on Wednesday 29 August.

Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thornton, acting officer in charge of the Hutt Valley CIB, says Police have now confirmed the death was suspicious and a homicide investigation is being launched.

“While I can’t say specifically how Mary died, I can confirm it was as a result of an injury.”

Ms Donnelly had an intellectual disability however she was living independently in her flat with the support of a caregiver and her family.

“Mary often visited the shops in Upper Hutt. She was also very interested in karaoke and attended karaoke evenings at the Upper Hutt Cossie Club. So a number of people in the community will know her,” Mr Thornton says.

A team of 20 police officers plus forensic experts are working on the investigation. The scene examination at the Ebdentown Street flat will continue for a few more days.

“I’d like to reassure Upper Hutt people that we’re working extremely hard on this investigation, and with their help, we hope to bring it to a speedy conclusion.

“We’re appealing to anyone who saw Mary at any time last Wednesday, to contact us. We’d also like to speak to her friends and acquaintances, so we would encourage them to contact us to assist our investigation,” Mr Thornton says.

Anyone with information can contact the Operation Town investigation team on (04) 560 4961 or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to give information anonymously.