“We can confirm that the fire appears to be deliberately lit and that Seymour’s death is of a suspicious nature,” said Detective Senior Sergeant Varnia Allan, Whanganui response officer in charge.
Shortly after emergency services were notified of the house fire, police were alerted to a fatal two-vehicle crash on State Highway 49.
Jason Savage, 35, from Rangataua, died in the crash.
“Police can confirm the vehicle, and the deceased are connected to the Kaha Street addressthe ,” Allan said.
“While a homicide investigation is under way, police would like to reassure the community that we are working to identify those responsible.”
Anyone with information that may help police can report it through 105, referencing file number 260417/7386.