Serious assault leads to cordons in Whitianga

As an area of Whitianga remains cordoned off following an overnight assault that left a man fighting for his life, Waikato Police warn commuters, particularly secondary school students, to factor this in to their morning commute.

Detective Senior Sergeant Graham Pitkethley of the Eastern Waikato CIB said an investigation was launched following the discovery of an injured man in a ditch on Cook Dr, shortly after 2am.

“A 111 call was made to North Comms about this time advising three to four people chasing a male south on Cook Dr towards Mercury Bay School.

“The man was conscious at the time he was found, however his condition deteriorated and he was flown to Auckland Hospital in a critical condition.

He is currently described as being in a serious but stable condition.”

Mr Pitkethley said because of the seriousness of the incident, a cordon was established and placed under guard overnight.

“We will need to establish what has occurred and this will require a thorough scene examination.

“Because of this an area of Cook Dr, between Campbell and Dundas Streets is currently cordoned off and likely to remain so for some time.

This will require commuters, particularly secondary school students, to factor delays into their planning of how they get to school or work this morning.”

Mr Pitkethley said the public can play a key part in assisting Police in establishing what occurred.

“Anyone with any information on this attack is asked to contact Whitianga Police on 07 866 4000.”

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously with the independent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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