Couple discovered dead in Hamilton after child not picked up from school

A man has been arrested and charged with two counts of murder after a couple were found dead at a property in Hamilton East on Thursday.

According to a report by Stuff, the bodies were reportedly discovered by a family member after a child was not picked up from school, according to information understood by Stuff. Emergency services responded to the scene on York St, with one nearby resident saying between eight and 12 police officers attended following the discovery.

Neighbours described the incident as unusual for the quiet area. One neighbour told the Waikato Times they heard a loud noise coming from the property on Thursday, noting an older man and woman lived there. “The loudness yesterday was very uncommon,” they said, Stuff has quoted.

Detective Inspector Stephen Ambler said police were alerted after the two people were found dead at the address around 4 pm. “Later in the evening, an injured man presented himself at the hospital, and officers connected the man to the deaths,” said Ambler, Stuff has quoted.

The 34-year-old accused is due to appear in Hamilton District Court on Saturday.

Police maintained a presence at the property overnight, with cordons in place and a scene guard stationed as investigations continued into Friday.

“Police would like to reassure the community that this was an isolated incident, and we are not looking for anyone else in relation to the matter,” said Ambler. “Our thoughts and condolences are with the loved ones of the two people that died,” as quoted by Stuff.