Police warn Hamilton fire vigil attendees following arrests

Hamilton Police are warning young people gathering to pay their respects for the three young people lost in Saturday's fatal house fire to remember why they are there after several incidents linked to memorial vigils over recent nights.

Acting City Area Commander, Inspector Marcus Lynam, said though the vast number of young people who have been gathering outside the Collingwood St address have been respectful and there to pay their respects, Police have been concerned about the behaviour of a few.

"On Saturday night our staff had cause to speak to people in regards to breaching the liquor ban and the same occurred on Sunday.

Things took a turn for the worse on Tuesday night however when officers guarding the scene became concerned about the behaviour of one small group.

"Additional staff were called and one intoxicated male was arrested.

The man has become abusive and lashed out, as a female officer went in to assist her colleague the man has struck her in the head causing an injury that required medical treatment."

Mr Lynam said things were no better on Wednesday night when Police had to deal with more intoxicated teenagers with two drivers arrested for excess breath alcohol and another for sustained loss of traction at the vigil.

"Then last night, a number of people at the Collingwood St vigil have moved over to Claudelands Park to hold a lantern commemoration.

Unfortunately again, a small unruly element have also gone over and as our staff have gone to arrested one male a part of the crowd have turned on our staff resulting in the arrest of another three people.

"On Wednesday Police met with the three families of the young people tragically lost and all were horrified that what were intended to be gatherings to pay respects to their loved ones were instead turning into something else."

Mr Lynam said Police were aware of a gathering intended for tonight and urged those attending to remember they were going there to celebrate the lives of three young people.

"Spare a thought for the loved ones who are seeking to deal with their tragic loss the best way they can.

Ask yourself if your behaviour is supporting them in the best way you can and if the answer is no then consider if you are there for the right reasons?"

"Our staff have been affected by the loss of these young people too, however we will be taking a zero tolerance approach to any anti-social behaviour which can and will not be tolerated."

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