A 21-year-old South African man who recently emigrated to New Zealand has died following an assault in Wellington, prompting police to launch a homicide enquiry.
Luke Smith, who had moved to Upper Hutt with his parents earlier this year, passed away in hospital on October 8, 2024, surrounded by family. His life support had been withdrawn overnight, according to Detective Senior Sergeant Tim Leich from the Wellington Criminal Investigations Branch.
The assault occurred at approximately 3:15 am on Sunday, October 6, at a bus stop outside the old Reading Cinema building in Courtenay Place, Wellington. Police are still working to determine the exact circumstances of the incident.
Investigators are combing through evidence and have appealed for witnesses to come forward. “We need to speak to anyone who saw the incident,” Detective Senior Sergeant Leich stated.
A post-mortem examination is scheduled for Wednesday, October 9. Following this, Luke’s family plans to return his body to South Africa for the funeral.
Police confirmed that a 29-year-old man was arrested on Monday in connection with the assault. The suspect appeared in Wellington District Court and was granted bail. He is due to appear in court again on October 21, where police said further charges may be added.
According to the New Zealand Herald, the accused is reported to be a well-known boxer, though this information has not been officially confirmed by the police.
The death of Luke Smith has shocked both the local community in Upper Hutt and the South African expatriate community in New Zealand. It raises concerns about public safety and the challenges faced by recent immigrants adjusting to life in a new country.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist with the homicide enquiry.
