Body of missing Christchurch father found concealed at Hereford Street property

The body of 21-year-old Braydon Hepworth was discovered on Thursday at a property on Hereford Street in Christchurch. A source reported that the body had been concealed at the flat, which is occupied by an associate of Hepworth. Police are treating the death as unexplained and are conducting a complex investigation.

A post-mortem examination has been carried out, but results were reported as inconclusive. Police are currently awaiting further test results to determine the circumstances of the death. Detective Inspector Scott Anderson stated that the investigation involves a range of enquiries and material to be reviewed.

Hepworth had been missing since 3 September, when he was last seen at a Linwood service station. He was a diabetic who required daily medication, causing significant concern for his family. His mother, Char Huntley, had previously used Facebook to appeal for information regarding his disappearance.

Public records indicate that Ivan Andrew Campbell, a convicted sex offender, was the last known tenant of the Hereford Street address in 2024. While Campbell's previous residency at the property is noted, police have not suggested he is connected to the death. It remains unclear if Campbell still resides at the address.

Where reports differ

• One report states the post-mortem was inconclusive, while another states it has been completed

Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, The Post, RNZ and Stuff.