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Police investigating the fatal house fire at Bucklands Beach are appealing for help from the public, as they focus on a container believed to have been used to carry the accelerant that started the blaze.
Detective Inspector Tofilau Faamanuia Va’aelua of Counties Manukau CIB said investigators are seeking information about a distinctive 10-litre container, similar in size and appearance to one discovered at the scene.
Emergency services were called to the Murvale Drive home about 2.30am on Thursday October 2.
Police have since confirmed the victims were Jung Sup Lee, 36, and his son Ha-il Lee, 11, both of Bucklands Beach.
“We believe this type of container was used to bring the accelerant that started the fire,” Detective Inspector Va’aelua said.
“We are asking anyone who saw a person or persons carrying similar containers on the night of 1 October or the early hours of 2 October to contact us. No detail is too small or irrelevant.”
Information or footage can be uploaded via the Operation Town portal at town.nc3.govt.nz, reported online at 105 using reference 251002/9501, or provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Bucklands Beach Intermediate Deputy Principal Will Roper told the Franklin Times the school community is deeply affected by the tragedy.
He said the school is “deeply saddened to confirm that one of our students tragically lost their life in the house fire on Murvale Drive,” and that counselling and pastoral support are being made available for students, staff, and families.
“We ask that the privacy of the family is respected as they grieve their loss,” Roper said.
More than $25,000 has been donated via a Givealittle page set up to support the surviving family members as they rebuild their lives following the tragedy.
