Crime / 19 May 2023
An arrest in Wellington
He hasn’t been named ahead of a court appearance today, but authorities have charged a man with 2 counts of arson over the fire at the Loafers Lodge hostel on Monday night. Reports say he was a resident in the building, more serious charges could be filed against him, and police aren’t looking for anyone else. At least 6 people died in the fire, and up to 20 people are missing. Investigators are making progress at the scene, which has been challenging to navigate because of the extensive damage to the top floor – so far, 2 bodies have been removed, and 2 more will be taken out today. Along with generating a discussion on New Zealand’s safety standards, PM Chris Hipkins says the tragedy has spotlighted the nation’s housing crisis. High rental prices and a shortage of state housing has pushed many Kiwis into temporary accommodation like Loafers Lodge.
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