Police have launched a homicide investigation after a Hamilton man died in hospital from stab wounds he received when he confronted youths as young as 12 breaking into a car.
Local man Norman Kingi, 54, was found with critical injuries on Ranui Street at about 11.30 last night and an ambulance rushed Mr Kingi to Waikato Hospital, however he died shortly after midnight.
Detective Inspector Graham Pitkethley said Mr Kingi had disturbed a group of youths breaking into a vehicle and was wounded in an altercation that ensued.
The enquiry team has been working on a scene examination today with staff from ESR.
A 15 and 13-year-old have appeared in the Hamilton Youth Court today and a 12-year-old has been referred to Youth Aid.
Police have spoken with a number of witnesses and are keen to hear from anyone who was at a nearby party.
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