Police lay charges – Death at Wadeye

Northern Territory Police have charged an 18-year-old man in relation to ongoing unrest in Wadeye.

Police allege the man was engaged in an altercation with a 32-year-old man on Saturday 16 April, causing him severe head injuries. The 32-year-old died in Royal Darwin Hospital last night.

The alleged offender was arrested in Wadeye yesterday and charged with serious harm. He was remanded in custody to appear in Darwin Local Court today. This morning the charge was upgraded to manslaughter.

A 24-year-old man injured in the community on the same evening remains in hospital.

Acting Superintendent Bradley Fox said, “Ongoing disputes between family groups in the community have seen additional police deployed, including crime detectives and general duties officers.

“Last night, after news of the death reached the community, disturbances escalated. A 23-year-old man was subsequently injured by a projectile, and several disused vehicles and other household items were set alight.”

Police along with staff from Department of Chief Minister and Cabinet continue to engage with the community, with the assistance of local government and key Aboriginal organisations in an effort to restore calm.

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