A Christchurch teenager has died in hospital following an assault in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
The 18-year-old man was assaulted in Sydenham in the Countdown car park on Moorhouse Avenue. Police were called to the scene at about 2am.
A homicide investigation has been launched following the teenager's death in Christchurch Hospital today.
"This is a tragic outcome and once again this year we're investigating the murder of a young person in our community," Detective Inspector Joel Syme said.
Police say they are confident they know the identity of the person responsible for the incident are actively seeking him.
"We believe this person was solely responsible for the injuries sustained by our victim, and he knows we are wanting to speak with him,' Syme said.
"The victim's family are tonight coming to terms with their loss and are understandably distraught.
We are helping them through this challenging time."
Police say they want to thank those who saw the assault and have come forward with information. Anyone who is yet to talk to police can do so by calling 105 and quote file number 211204/5631 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.