The Nelson Haven boat in which a body was found on Thursday morning. Photo by Brittany Spencer.

Local arrested in John Morton homicide case

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Today, Nelson Police have arrested and charged a 52-year-old local man with the murder of John ‘Muzza’ Morton whose body was found in a Nelson Haven boat on Thursday, August 4.

This man was known to Muzza and will appear in the Nelson District Court on Monday, August 22.

Detective Inspector Paul Borrell says a team of detectives working from Nelson supported by analysts, forensic scientists and fingerprint experts, worked tirelessly on the enquiry to identify the offender responsible for Mr Morton’s death.

“I would especially like to pass on our thanks and appreciation to members of the Nelson community and media for their support to date with this investigation. As result of this support, valuable information critical to our enquiry has been received which included information provided anonymously to police.

“We are and remain absolutely committed to keeping our communities safe and will make every effort to bring persons who choose to commit such serious crimes against others to account”.

Detective Inspector Paul Borrell says he would also like to encourage anyone who may have provided earlier information about the accused man now in our custody, or has further information relating to the death of Mr Morton, to contact the Nelson Police on 03 546 3895.

As the matter is before the courts, police are unable to comment further.