Inquest opens into mum's murder by Christchurch mental health patient
An inquest has begun into the 2022 murder of Laisa Waka Tunidau, who was killed by a forensic mental health patient in Christchurch. The proceedings examine the circumstances surrounding the attack and the failure of the mental health system to prevent the tragedy.
Why it matters
This case highlights systemic issues in mental health care and public safety, prompting national debate on patient management.
<p>The inquest into the violent death of a Christchurch woman, who was <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/06/26/christchurch-woman-stabbed-to-death-in-random-attack-police/" target="_blank">murdered outside her Sockburn home </a>by a forensic mental health patient, begins today.</p> <p>Mother of four, Laisa Waka Tunidau was fatally stabbed four years ago, after she got off a bus on her way home from work. Her 11-year-old son witnessed the attack unfold, watching through the window of their home.</p> <p>The killing took place in June 2022, Later that year, Zakariye Mohamed Hussein, <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/06/29/christchurch-stabbing-accused-on-leave-from-mental-health-facility/" target="_blank">a patient at secure mental health facility</a> Hillmorton Hospital, was jailed for life with a minimum non-parole period of 13 years.
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