"Crossbow assault in Wairarapa"
Police are investigating a serious assault which occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning (20 November) in south Wairarapa.
At 3am, three men aged 18, 18 and 23 were confronted by a fourth man who fired a crossbow which struck the head of one of the group, after a confrontation at a remote address at Kahutara near Lake Ferry.
The arrow from the crossbow penetrated the skull of a 23-year-old man who received immediate treatment for his injuries at Masterton Hospital.
The victim is currently in Wellington Hospital ICU where his status remains serious but stable.
Police have spoken to several witnesses and conducted a number of scene examinations.
A crossbow was recovered during one of those searches.
All four men were known to each other.
The assault is not gang-related and Police are confident there is no ongoing risk to the public.
A 21-year-old man has been arrested and is currently charged with assault while the full circumstances of the event are investigated.
He was due to appear in the Masterton District Court today, Monday 21 November.
Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to their investigation.
“I am very comfortable that we have spoken to all of the primary witnesses and that there is no risk to the public now or in the future from this group,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Bysouth.
The victim and his family have been referred to Victim Support.
