Family of Kiwi man who died in UK say death was a ‘terrible accident’

The family of Kiwi man Joseph Day, who recently died in the UK, say his death was a “horrific accident”.

The 31-year-old was reported missing from Bristol, England, on Monday May 2 after being neither heard from nor seen since the evening of April 30 (UK time).

A body was found during a search for Joseph on Tuesday, May 3. The body was found in Bristol’s Avon Gorge.

On Sunday, May 15, Joseph’s family released a statement saying they believe his death was a “horrific accident.”

“At this time, Joseph’s death is still being treated as unsolved and the coroner’s investigation is ongoing,” the statement said.

“Following the evidence presented to us by the police, we as a family believe Joseph was in a horrific accident.

“We know that due to the exceptional level of public interest in both New Zealand and the UK, Avon and Somerset Police are under a lot of pressure to make a statement to the media.

“Further investigations are ongoing and we ask for privacy at this incredibly difficult time pending further answers.

“A celebration of Joseph’s life for family and friends will be held at Auckland City Hall on Thursday 26 May at 11am,” the statement concludes.

Last week, Avon and Somerset Police told 1News that the coroner would determine the cause of death.

Breakfast’s Matty McLean performed a tribute to Joseph in early May, saying he followed in his father’s footsteps to become a cameraman at TVNZ. Joseph had worked for TVNZ for more than 10 years. His father still does.

“They’re both so popular in our newsroom whānau,” Matty said.

“He’s also been a huge part of our Breakfast Whānau,” Matty continued, “he’s worked for us on countless live mornings across the country and always brought a quiet confidence and calm to his work that’s inherent in the high-pressure world of live television.” are urgently needed.”

Breakfast host Jenny-May Clarkson said breakfast whānau – and the broader TVNZ whānau – wanted to publicly honor Joe “as a colleague, friend and brother”.

A montage of photos of Joe was then played to the song Pepeha by Kiwi band Six60.