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Police Seek Witnesses in Alleged North Dunedin Murder

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, November 18th 2025 at 0:27 GMT by The New Zealand Herald

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Police Seek Witnesses in Alleged North Dunedin Murder

Police in the North Dunedin area are conducting a full‑scale investigation after a young man was found dead in a residential property, and are now asking the public for anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious on the night of the incident. The case, which has already drawn a great deal of media attention, has left the community stunned and desperate for answers.

The Incident

On the evening of Saturday, 12 June 2024, the body of John “Jack” Thompson, 27, was discovered in the garden of a 4‑bedroom house on Oak Avenue, North Dunedin. The scene was described by police as “a tragic and deeply unsettling sight.” Thompson’s remains were identified by a combination of dental records and a distinctive silver chain that he always wore. The initial medical assessment ruled the cause of death to be an excessive stab wound to the chest, followed by a second wound to the neck. There was no sign of a struggle inside the house, leading investigators to believe that the attacker may have entered through a back door or a window.

The homeowner, who lives in the house with her parents, reported seeing a man leave the property earlier that evening. She could not identify the individual but described him as “tall, wearing a black hoodie, and carrying a large bag.” She also mentioned that she heard “a sudden, loud thud” before the intruder fled.

The Police Response

Police detectives from the Dunedin Police District and the North Dunedin Community Team began a search of the surrounding area immediately after the body was found. The scene was sealed off and a forensic team collected a range of evidence, including blood spatter, a broken window glass shard, and several shoe prints. A police search dog was brought in to locate any further biological evidence.

The investigation also involved the examination of cCTV footage from a number of nearby businesses and residential cameras. Police have requested that any owners of security footage covering the time between 10 pm and 2 am on Saturday 12 June contact the North Dunedin Police Team. Preliminary reviews have produced a short clip showing a blue Toyota Hilux, 2019 model, parked for an extended period near the house before the body was found. The vehicle’s license plate number is believed to be DH1234.

A press release from the Police on their official website (link provided in the article) confirms that the suspect, if identified, will be held on bail pending further questioning. The release notes that the suspect’s DNA has been matched to the DNA found at the crime scene, but that the police are continuing to look for additional witnesses who may help place the suspect at the scene or who may have observed the suspect’s vehicle or a separate vehicle in the area.

A Call for Witnesses

Chief Detective Alex Marshall urged anyone who was in or near the North Dunedin area on the night of the murder to come forward. “We are very close to resolving this case, but we need your help,” he said in a brief interview. “Even a small detail could be the difference between catching the perpetrator and allowing them to walk free.”

The Police are specifically looking for:

1. Individuals who saw a vehicle matching the description of a blue Toyota Hilux near Oak Avenue on the night of the incident.
2. Witnesses who noticed a suspicious person entering or leaving the residence, especially during the 10 pm‑2 am window.
3. Anyone with surveillance footage that could show the suspect or their vehicle entering or leaving the property.

Police have established a dedicated telephone line at and an email address at northdunedinpolice@police.govt.nz for tips. They have also set up a RedFlag NZ online tip form for anyone wishing to submit information anonymously.

Community Reaction and Context

The murder has struck a nerve in the North Dunedin community, which had previously been described as a “tight‑knit, family‑friendly suburb.” Local residents are expressing both shock and frustration. Linda Harper, a neighbour who lives across the street, described the scene as “the most horrible thing I’ve ever seen.” She expressed concerns that “this could be part of a broader pattern of violence that we have to confront.”

The Police have referred to past incidents that may give context to the investigation. An earlier article from the New Zealand Herald about a bicycle theft spree that occurred in North Dunedin during late May has been linked. Police say that while the thefts were unrelated, they have highlighted the area’s increased vigilance and the importance of community cooperation.

The local council has also stepped in to provide support services for those affected by the murder. A crisis counselling team has been established in the community centre, offering free sessions to anyone who feels impacted by the tragedy.

What to Expect Next

Police have said that the next 48 hours will be crucial. They will be:

• Interviewing the homeowner and other residents who might have seen or heard anything.
• Reviewing CCTV from all possible cameras and identifying any footage of the suspect or a vehicle.
• Processing forensic evidence from the scene, including DNA and trace evidence.
• Conducting a vehicle check on the blue Toyota Hilux and any other vehicles matching the description.

Detective Marshall told reporters that “once we have a clearer picture of who the suspect is and their movements, we can confirm whether this was a random act or part of a larger, more sinister motive.” He added that they are exploring all avenues, including the possibility of gang-related activity or a domestic dispute, but that nothing has yet pointed to either conclusion.

How You Can Help

If you were in the North Dunedin area between 10 pm and 2 am on Saturday 12 June and saw anything that might be relevant, it is vital that you come forward. Even if you feel your information is only “small,” it could be the key to catching the perpetrator. Call the dedicated line or email, or visit the police station in person.

The community’s cooperation is essential. Police are also urging local businesses to share any security footage that could help the investigation. For any individuals who wish to remain anonymous, the RedFlag NZ online tip system is available.

Final Thoughts

The murder of John “Jack” Thompson has left the North Dunedin community in mourning, and the police are racing to bring justice for a life cut short. Their plea for witnesses underscores the role that community members play in solving violent crime. By staying alert, sharing any information, and supporting one another, residents can help ensure that the perpetrator is brought to account and that this tragedy does not remain unresolved.