Police investigate suspected murder-suicide involving two people in Buller
Tuesday 6 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated 
Police are investigating the deaths of Chelsey Anne Russell, 34, and Samuel Frederick Bass, 45, as a suspected murder-suicide. The two individuals were found dead at separate properties on the West Coast last week. Russell was discovered in a milking shed on Maimai Road.
Key facts
6 facts
- Chelsey Anne Russell, 34, died at a property on Maimai Rd.
- Samuel Frederick Bass, 45, died at a property on SH7 at Rahu Saddle.
- The incident occurred on Tuesday, 29 September.
- Police are treating the case as a suspected murder-suicide.
- A homicide investigation has been launched.
- No one else is being sought by police.
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Police are investigating the deaths of two people in Buller as a suspected murder-suicide. Chelsey Anne Russell, 34, was found dead in a milking shed at a property on Maimai Rd. Samuel Frederick Bass, 45, was found dead at a property on State Highway 7 at Rahu Saddle.
Emergency services were called to the SH7 property at approximately 7.50am on 29 September following concerns for a person. Officers discovered the first body at the SH7 location before further enquiries led them to the Maimai Rd property.
A homicide investigation has been launched, but police stated there is no ongoing risk to the public and no one else is being sought. Detective Inspector Geoff Baber said police are providing support to loved ones.
Local councillor Dave Hawe described the event as "unimaginable" and "absolutely horrific". He noted that significant speculation has occurred within the community regarding the incident.
Where reports differ
- Reports differ on the residence of Samuel Frederick Bass, with one stating he was from Crushington.
Compiled from reports by Stuff and The Press.
