Police seeking fifth man after fatal shooting

Police are seeking a fifth man in connection with a fatal shooting in a Nelson park yesterday.

Officers had already arrested four other men, who were being held on a number of charges they will face in Nelson District Court tomorrow.

A 22-year-old man was shot dead during a confrontation between two groups of men in Branford Park, near the city's centre about 6pm.

The fight, involving about 12 people, started over a woman who "was known to both groups", Detective Inspector John Winter said.

"There had been a level of tension over the past few months that was escalating in intensity," he said. (<-- Interesting !!! S1000+)

In addition to the gun, a baseball bat was used in the fight and another man suffered moderate head injuries.

Forensic examiners were on the scene this morning, with the body remaining where it fell until later today when it would be taken away for a post-mortem examination, he said.

The four men in custody were arrested at a house in Richmond about 11pm.

Police knew who the fifth man was and hoped he would get in touch on his own accord today, Mr Winter said.

Police were also looking for the two cars the men used to leave the scene of the shooting, as well as any witnesses to the incident they had not yet talked to.