UPDATE: Operation Polar, New Plymouth homicide

Police have released the name of the man killed in a homicide in New Plymouth on Wednesday night.

He was 23-year-old Rei Joseph Tumatauinga Maihi Marshall, known as Rei Marshall, of New Plymouth.

"Rei was a young father and as you would imagine his family are devastated about his death and are wanting answers," says Detective Senior Sergeant Gerard Bouterey.

The investigation team is currently in the early stages of the investigation which includes a forensic scene examination of both a South Road residential property and a car used to transport Rei to hospital.

"We are also speaking to Rei's associates, friends and family and strongly encourage anyone who has information that might assist the investigation team to contact us on 105 and quote 220803/3149."

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or online via www.crimestoppers-nz.org.

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