An assault charge has been upgraded to murder following the death of an 84-year-old woman in Auckland’s Papatoetoe earlier this month.
Police had been investigating the death of Joan Beale since she was found dead at her home in Ashlynne Ave on August 9 at around 10.30am.
A 50-year-old man was initially charged with assault and was due to reappear in the Manukau District Court today.
Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward said a murder charge was laid following inquiries.
“I acknowledge these events will have upset the local Papatoetoe community, but please be assured that this matter is now in the hands of the court.”
Police were seeking no one else in connection with Beale’s death.
