Man charged with murder of Speedy Donaldson

Mr Donaldson, 69, died in an altercation at Ryan Park at 11am yesterday morning.

Police said he was beaten to death with a small, 40cm sledgehammer in an unprovoked attack.

Detective Senior Sergeant Lee Morgan of the Major Crime Squad said police officers who had been patrolling the area arrived at the gruesome scene within 60 seconds after the attack and apprehended the offender.

"It is a horrific crime - and extremely sad," Det Sen Sgt Morgan said.

The detective, who has been with police for more than 15 years, said the extend of the injuries that lead to Mr Donaldon's death were "some of the worst" he had seen in his career.

"Obviously it is a very difficult time for family and friends, ongoing support is being provided to the family at this terrible time," he said.

Det Sen Sgt Morgan said police investigations were ongoing and the 37-year-old alleged offender had been charged with murder at lunchtime today after being held in custody over night.

 "The two men did not know each other and police are working hard to find out what lead to the altercation."

Det Sen Sgt Morgan said a team of ten police investigators - six from Katherine and four from Darwin - were working on the care.

He said the offender was not of Indigenous or German heritage - as rumours throughout town suggested - but from the eastern states.

The man is due to appear in the Katherine Magistrates Court tomorrow.

The victim, Ron Donaldson, known around Katherine as "Speedy the Fencer" is survived by his wife Naomi and their two-year-old daughter Nathalie.