Background

On the morning of November 5, 2024, an arson attack at a block of flats in Stokes Valley, Wellington, claimed the life of 82-year-old Ian David Moller. The incident has left his family grappling with grief and a desperate search for answers.

Picture source: Monique Ford

The Incident

Moller was critically injured when his residence on Hanson Grove, Lower Hutt, was set ablaze in the early hours. He succumbed to his injuries four days later. This fire was part of a series of suspicious fires, marking it as the third in less than a month at the same location, with previous incidents occurring on October 10 and 14, 2024.

Picture source: RNZ

Police Investigation

The Wellington Police have escalated the investigation to a homicide probe due to Moller’s death. A 21-year-old man was initially arrested in connection with the first fire but was released when charges were dropped due to insufficient evidence. Authorities have not yet established a definitive link between the three fires, though they continue to seek public assistance, particularly regarding sightings of a vehicle and a cyclist in the area at the time of the fatal fire.

Family’s Plea

Denise Harrison, Moller’s niece, has been vocal in her quest for justice, echoing the police’s call for information from the community. Speaking to RNZ News, she expressed the difficulty of finding closure under such circumstances:

“Had my uncle died at 82 of an illness or just old age, I could have reconciled that a lot more easily. But it did occur to me when I was speaking at his funeral that the circumstances of this were just not right.”

She emphasized the constant reminder of her uncle’s tragic end, describing him as someone who was not likely to have enemies, known for his involvement in church activities, prayer meetings, and local coffee groups. Moller had a love for history and was proud of his Norwegian heritage, co-founding the Wellington Scandinavian Club.

Community Response

The community has rallied around Moller’s family, with outpourings of support and condolences. Friends at his funeral spoke warmly of him, highlighting his friendly nature and community involvement. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about safety and the spate of arson attacks in the area.

Moving Forward

Police Efforts: Despite the challenges, the police are committed to finding those responsible. They have scheduled a hearing regarding the name suppression of the previously arrested individual for March, indicating ongoing legal proceedings.

Public Appeal: The police are urging anyone with information, especially those who might have witnessed suspicious activities around the time of the fires, to come forward. This includes details about a vehicle or cyclist seen near the scene.

Conclusion

The death of Ian David Moller in such violent circumstances has left a void in the community and his family, who now seek not only justice but also a way to understand this tragedy. The case remains open, with the Wellington Police actively investigating, as the community hopes for resolution and an end to this series of fires.

For those who might have any information, please contact the Wellington Police or use the Crimestoppers service to provide tips anonymously.