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RWC worker bashed to death

Auckland - More serious charges could be laid following a fatal attack on a Rugby World Cup television worker in downtown Auckland.

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Sky TV's Billy Dawson, 34, was beaten near Spy Bar in the Viaduct Harbour in the early hours of Friday after celebrating the end of a challenging broadcasting schedule.

The Christchurch man was taken to Auckland City Hospital but emergency staff could not save him. He died several hours later after family, friends and colleagues had a chance to bid him a final farewell.

His brother-in-law Coen Lammers said Mr Dawson died after a night out with workmates and suffered the fatal injuries after becoming separated from fellow Sky TV employees.

"They had a day off. So they had a barbecue and went into town. They got separated right at the end and that is when it happened ... they [Mr Dawson's colleagues] are very cut up about it."

Three men have been charged with assault but Detective Inspector Scott Beard, of Auckland police, confirmed today that they may all have their charges reviewed.

"Obviously his death will be taken into account over whether any other charges will be laid," Detective Inspector Beard told NZ Newswire.

Of those charged, Kit John Murray is in custody and expected to face Auckland District Court on today, while Mona Christo Feterika and Antoni Te Moko Rogers are on bail and will appear later in the week.

Meanwhile, friends and family are reeling at the death of a man they describe as a "great guy".

His Facebook page shows photographs of a smiling Mr Dawson posing with a New Zealand flag on the Great Wall of China during the Beijing Olympics, and holidaying in the Czech Republic.

Other shots show him with a girlfriend at Waitomo Caves.

His funeral is expected to be held in Christchurch later this week.


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