Otara, Counties Manukau: Overnight Shooting update

Updated release with registration number of sought vehicle.

The Police investigation into the shooting of a 23 year old man at a Flatbush East Tamaki residence overnight has revealed information about a vehicle of interest that is believed to have visited the address around the time the shooting took place.

The vehicle is described as a 1998 dark green mazda capella, registration number GKM946.

A person connected to that car is being sought by police.

He is Gareth HERON a male caucasian aged 25 yrs. He is believed to have in his possession a 0.22 calibre cut down rifle.

HERON is known to use multiple Auckland addresses and frequent the Howick, Pakuranga and Flatbush suburbs.

The public is asked not to approach the vehicle or its occupant if seen but to report any sightings as to his whereabouts to Police.

Assistance is still sought from members of the public and in particular those who live in the immediate area and surrounding streets where the shooting took place for information. Police are particularly interested in any activity seen around the address of 35 Eastland Road between 10pm and 11pm. Any sightings of the dark green mazda vehicle at the address or leaving it during those times are also sought.

The victim of the shooting remains in a critical condition in Middlemore Hospital with concerns held for his survival.

Anyone who has information that will assist them is asked to call Counties Manukau Police on 09 261 1300 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 and refer to Operation Helen.

ENDS

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