Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
The Police investigation into the death of a woman at a property in Kaikohe overnight is progressing today.
Police were called to a Taraire Street property at 11.41pm on Thursday 1 June, following reports of an intruder being located inside the property.
We continue to speak to the other occupants of the address as we piece together what has occurred.
We appreciate there are several questions the public will have about what has happened, however at this very early stage there are a number of aspects we are unable to comment on as to not jeopardise the investigation.
A scene examination has been underway at the address this morning and continues this evening. A scene guard remains in place.
A number of items of interest left behind at the address were recovered and those items are now undergoing forensic testing to assist with our enquiries.
The offender has fled the scene on foot, leaving behind a pair of shoes and another item of clothing.
The offender was last seen running away barefoot. This may stick in the minds of anyone who was around Kaikohe at this time last night, and we are very keen to hear from you.
While we are aware of media reporting, Police are not yet in a position to name the victim, however what we can say is that this woman was a treasured member of the family, and she was attempting to intervene to assist her family members who were also inside the property at the time.
Detective Inspector Rhys Johnston, Northland CIB, says Police are ensuring there is support in place for those other occupants.
“This is an absolutely devastating incident for this family, who are not only coming to terms with the sense of violation of someone entering their home but are now also grieving a vulnerable member of their whānau.
“Our team’s priority is to locate the person responsible, and the community can be reassured we are treating this incident extremely seriously.”
Detective Inspector Johnston says Police would also still like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area before or around the time of the incident who may have seen something suspicious.
“It is understood the male has entered the property sometime between 11-11.20pm.
“If you can assist our investigation, please contact Police through our 105 phone service quoting the file number 230602/1746 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
We will continue to provide updates proactively as they become available.
ENDS.
Anna Thompson/NZ Police
Media note: An audio recording of an earlier stand-up should be available shortly. Please email the Media Centre if you require a copy.
