Scene examination completed at Ashburton

Tuesday, 3 June 2014 - 4:38pm

Canterbury

Ashburton Police have completed their scene examination this afternoon at the location where a man's body was found on Sunday.

The body of Arran James Gairns, aged 34, of Ashburton, was found on Sunday [1 June] in a drainage run-off area behind commercial premises on West Street.

Detective Senior Sergeant Marion Neill of Mid-South Canterbury Police says a team of specialist search staff travelled to Ashburton today to carry out a search of the area where Mr Gairns was found.

"Today they have located his cellphone, which we expect will be helpful in providing further information on the events leading up to his death," she says.

"At this stage we are satisfied that drowning is the cause of death, and there is no evidence of suspicious circumstances.

"However we are continuing our investigation of behalf of the Coroner.

"We have released the scene."

Police are aware of speculation over the incident, Detective Senior Sergeant Neill says, and the investigation team is focused on establishing Mr Gairns' movements and how he came to be in the area where he was found.

Some 12 police staff are working on the investigation. As part of their enquiries Police are speaking to friends and associates of the deceased.

Investigators are also asking for any witnesses who may have been in the area during the early hours of Saturday morning to come forward and contact Police.

Mr Gairns' body has been released to his family today. Police and Victim Support are providing assistance to the family.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ashburton police on (03) 3078400

Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

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