Death a ‘tragic accident’

Police believe 17-year-old George Hill was his normal, happy self before he died, and have now spoken to six people as the investigation into his death continues.

Detective Will Joines said yesterday that after three people had initially been spoken to in the investigation, three more people had come forward since then with information in relation to Hill’s death.

He said the information they received from those who have come forward has led police to believe that Hill was his ‘‘normal, happy self’’ in the lead up to his death.

‘‘It hasn’t caused us any suspicion,’’ Joines said.

Hill’s body was found in an alley behind Stafford St, Timaru, in the early hours of March 5. His funeral service has been held and his death has been referred to the coroner.

Joines said the nature of the investigation has not changed.

‘‘I think we’ve spoken with everyone that we were wanting to speak to.

‘‘It appears to be a tragic accident.

‘‘I’ve spoken with a couple of others who came forward with information.

‘‘We know he’s fallen to his death but we still don’t know how he fell.’’

The investigation will continue to establish how Hill fell to his death.

He said there were no suspicious circumstances.

Kathryn Hill spoke at the funeral service of the family’s huge burden of grief after losing her ‘‘beautiful’’ son.

Anyone with any information relating to Hill’s death should contact Joines on 021 190 9668.