Police focus on bars used to weigh body down

Police involved in the homicide investigation into the death of Michael Hutchings are following positive leads in relation to the origin of the steel bars used to weigh down the body of Mr Hutchings. 

Detective Inspector Ross Pinkham says that the bars have been traced to a Mosgiel industrial firm which appears to have used the bars some time ago for their business.

Investigations are still continuing to confirm its origin and Police still have to determine with certainty where the bars have been in recent times. 

The information regarding the steel bars has come directly from members of the public.

The homicide investigative team is grateful for the support and ongoing interest the public have shown in the investigation.

There have also been emails to the Police regarding the type of nylon braided cord and this has provided the investigative team a useful direction of enquiry. 

The forensic examination of the Mitsubishi station wagon parked at Mr Hutchings address has been completed. This vehicle also has traces of blood in the vehicle.

It is too early to advise if this blood is from Mr Hutchings or if it has significance to the investigation. 

The owner of the house where Mr Hutchings has been living has been assisting the police with helpful background information into Mr Hutchings movements.

The Police wish to make no comment in relation to the national publicity given by the house owner.

It appears that the last sighting of Mr Hutchings was on Monday night 7th January 2008, in Kaitangata.

Mr Pinkham says that interviews with other associates of Mr Hutchings continue and their explanations taken into consideration with other information gleaned throughout the investigation. 

The forensic examination of the house in Old Coach Road continues and it is likely to be a few more days before that examination is completed.

Whilst traces of blood have been found in the house other observations and evidence has to be considered with the overall