3 Jun 2023

Rangiora homicide: Man charged with murder

10:10 am on 3 June 2023
Richard Anthony Leman

Richard Anthony Leman. Photo: Supplied / NZ Police

A man has been charged with the murder of Richard Anthony Leman, whose body was found in an abandoned property in Rangiora in April.

Leman, 41, had been missing for about a week when he was found dead in a car on Tyler Street on 17 April.

"This morning, officers, including members of the Armed Offenders Squad, executed a warrant at an Oxford Road, Rangiora address," Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Daniel Overend said on Saturday.

"A 46-year-old man was taken into custody."

The suspect has been charged with murder, and will appear in Christchurch District Court on Tuesday.

"We are still urging anyone with specific information relating to Leman's murder to come forward and speak to the inquiry team," said Overend.

"You can do so by calling 105 and quoting file 230415/8026."

Leman was last seen at the LilyBrook Shops in Rangiora, which is about a half-hour's drive north of Christchurch.]

"He may look rough and tough but he is a big baby at heart," his sister Nicola said during the search.

"Our little brother Richard has the kindest heart, loves his children, loves his family and would do anything to help others. We just want him home."

A search was carried out at a nearby property on Andrew Street a couple of weeks later.

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