Police have arrested a 21-year-old man following an investigation into the death of a homeless man in a hit and run in the Christchurch suburb of New Brighton, last week.
Police at the scene of the hit and run. Photo: RNZ / Simon Rogers
In a statement, Acting District Commander Superintendent Mike Johnson said: "The Canterbury Armed Offenders Squad have located and arrested the 21-year-old man who we were seeking in relation to the death of a man in New Brighton on Wednesday, 7 August."
Homeless man Dean Amies was killed when he was struck by a van fleeing from the police in the eastern suburb of New Brighton on 7 August.
At the time, police said the chase began shortly after 2pm after a vehicle of interest carrying three passengers failed to stop.
When the pursuit became to risky to continue, police ceased their chase and soon located the car and arrested two of the passengers.
Earlier this week, police said they had recovered six firearms, drugs and two stolen cars. They had been searching for 21-year-old Liam Strickland in relation to Mr Amies' death.
Police raided over 24 properties and arrested 15 people who face various charges.
Mr Johnson said the investigation into Mr Amies' death continued.
"We would like to thank members of the public in Canterbury for their assistance and understanding while police have made proactive enquiries to locate him.
"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased at this time.''