Teen killed by punch remembered as a ‘sweet, curious boy’
A teenage boy killed after he was punched in the car park of a Christchurch supermarket has been remembered as a ‘‘sweet, curious boy with a million questions about life’’ in one of many tributes online.
Emergency services were called to Countdown on Moorhouse Ave, Sydenham, at about 2am on Saturday after Levi Haami was found outside with serious injuries. The 18-year-old was taken to Christchurch Hospital in a critical condition and placed on life support.
Police launched a homicide inquiry after he died on Sunday afternoon surrounded by family and friends.
A 16-year-old boy who was arrested and appeared in court yesterday denies his murder.
Haami’s family and friends have taken to social media to pay tribute to the teen.
My Fathers Barbers said they were ‘‘heartbroken’’ to hear of the death of Haami, who they had known for more than 10 years.
‘‘He was a sweet, curious boy with a million questions about life! And now he’s taken away from us at only 18 years old,’’ the post said.
Moana Cole, defence counsel for the 16-year-old, entered the not guilty plea during an appearance before Judge Tony Zohrab in the Youth Court at Christchurch yesterday.
She said no bail application would be made, and he was remanded in the custody of Oranga Tamariki’s chief executive.
His next appearance will be in the High Court on February 4 – murder cases are automatically transferred there after initial appearances in the Youth Court.
He has kept the automatic Youth Court name suppression ahead of the High Court appearance, but Judge Zohrab said the question of suppression would be reconsidered then.
Detective Inspector Joel Syme said police were not looking for anyone else in connection to Haami’s death.
‘‘This is a tragic outcome and once again this year we’re investigating the murder of a young person in our community,’’ he said.
‘‘The victim’s family are tonight coming to terms with their loss and are understandably distraught. We are helping them through this challenging time.’’ Several people saw the attack, said Syme, who thanked those who had come forward with information.
‘‘We know there are others who are yet to talk with us, and we encourage them to do so.’’
Forensic investigators examined the scene of the attack in the car park looking for clues on Saturday.
That night armed police swarmed streets in central Christchurch.
It was unclear if the operation, which appeared to focus on Salisbury St, between Colombo and Manchester streets, was connected with the car park assault.
The attack on Haami happened on the first night of restrictions easing at hospitality venues under the orange traffic light system, with bars and restaurants open with no restrictions for people who were fully vaccinated.