Featherston Assault now homicide investigation

The victim of last week's assault in Featherston died in Wellington Hospital's intensive care unit at approximately 7pm last night.

Mr Paul Richard Bernard Irons, aged 36 years, of Featherston, was being treated for serious head and chest injuries.

Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Borrell, officer in charge of the homicide investigation, said that police, family and medical staff were initially optimistic that Mr Irons' condition would improve.

"Tragically there has been no improvement and life support was withdrawn on Tuesday afternoon," Detective Senior Sergeant Borrell said.

A post mortem will be held later today to further assist in determining the cause of death. The coroner has been advised.

Detective Senior Sergeant Borrell said three people were arrested last Friday night and charged with assault. The three, aged 15, 17 and 25 years, appeared in the Masterton Court on Saturday morning and are to reappear today.

"We will await the outcome of the post mortem and seek advice from the Crown Solicitor before deciding exactly what further serious charges will be laid," he said.

Mr Irons was found lying in a park at the southern end of Featherston about 7am on Thursday, 9 October.

Up to thirty police and specialist staff worked on the enquiry during the first few days and a team of 10 presently remain.