Body Found in Caravan in Cromwell provisionally named

Central Otago Police say they now believe that the body found yesterday in a caravan at a Cromwell holiday park is likely to be that of missing Central Otago man Simon James Garrick.

Police say that while the deceased person is yet to be formally identified, a number of items found at the scene provide a strong indication that the body is that of Mr Garrick, who has been missing for approximately one year.

A scene examination was completed at the caravan today by Police, with the assistance of ESR scientists and a pathologist.

The body will now be taken to Christchurch where a post-mortem will be held next week to formally confirm identity. It is believed that final formal identification may rely on forensic results which may take some time.

Police say the circumstances do not appear to be suspicious at this time and the matter has been referred to the Coroner for final determination as to identity and cause of death.

Detective Sergeant Derek Shaw, second in charge in the case, says that he has spoken with Simon Garrick’s family and kept them informed of the latest developments.

“Simon’s family wish to thank the public and media for their support over the period of time that Simon has been missing. While this support has been very important to them, they now ask for privacy.”

ends

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