Police investigating the violent death of a 26-year-old Palmerston North man say he may have been killed in a different location from where he was found.
The body was found in Tairei Court in Palmerston North, but may have been placed there. Photo: Google Street View
The body of Samuel Peter Culling, who also used the names Samuel Whatuira and Samuel Badawi, was found outside a block of flats near West St on Thursday morning.
Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Sheridan, who is leading the investigation, said police were making no assumptions about the case.
"We're not sure is Sam died where his body was found, what we mean by that is we're not excluding the possibility that Sam may have been killed somewhere else and taken to this location."
Samuel Peter Culling Photo: Supplied
A team of 20 officers are working on the investigation.
His family said they could not believe what had happened.
In a brief statement, they said it was an absolutely horrendous situation and difficult to fathom.
They thanked people for their thoughts and prayers and have asked for privacy.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Operation West inquiry team on (06) 351 3885. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
