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The man accused of killing an east Auckland father and son who died in a house fire has appeared in court today, November 12.
Justice Mathew Downs granted the 38-year-old name suppression during his appearance in the Auckland High Court.
He’s been charged with murder following the deaths of Jung Sup Lee, 36, and his son, Ha-il Lee, whose bodies were found at their home in Murvale Drive, Bucklands Beach, after the fire on October 2. Three other people at the property survived.
Following an investigation of the incident, Detective Inspector Tofilau Faamanuia Va’aelua of Counties Manukau Police’s criminal investigation branch said police believe the blaze had been deliberately lit and an accelerant had been found at the scene.
The man pleaded not guilty to the murder charges during his court appearance today.
He was remanded in custody and is due to go on trial in February, 2027.
News media reported the defendant was assisted in court by a Korean-language interpreter.
Bucklands Beach Intermediate School deputy principal Will Roper previously confirmed the 11-year-boy who died in the fire was a pupil at the school.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with their family, friends, and all those affected at this very difficult time,” he said.
“Support is being made available to students, staff, and families within our school community.
“We ask that the privacy of the family is respected as they grieve their loss.”
A Givealittle fundraising page has been established to support the family. People can contribute online at: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/bucklands-beach-house-fire
More than $27,000 has so far been donated by 341 people.
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