Photo: RNZ / Angus DreaverPolice have confirmed this afternoon that a fifth body has been removed from the scene of this week's fatal fire at the Loafers Lodge in Wellington. Four bodies were recovered yesterday, after the blaze in the Wellington suburb of Newtown on Monday night. In a statement, acting Wellington District Commander Inspector Dion Bennett said police were now working to formally identify the fifth victim, along with the four recovered yesterday. Bennett said police teams were still working on a detailed forensic scene examination, which is expected to extend into next week. "Our staff are also continuing to contact families of those who were staying at Loafers Lodge who have been accounted for, so we can reassure them their loved ones are safe."

Source: Otago Daily Times May 20, 2023 18:23 UTC