Thames fatal firearms incident update

Police investigating Saturday afternoon's fatal firearms incident at Kopu, near Thames, are following up a new lead relating to another firearms incident at the same property earlier that day.

Head of the Police investigation, Detective Inspector Chris Page, says a scene examination of the Kopu address has revealed that prior to the confrontation with Mr Te Moananui, shots appeared to have been fired at the property in the early hours of Saturday morning.

"This is consistent with information we've received from a member of the public who reported hearing shots at about 2.30am on Saturday.

Police have also now spoken with a Paeroa man, who was shot in the leg during the incident and is helping us with our inquiries.

He received a superficial injury and has received medical treatment."

"In addition to appealing for any further information about the events on Saturday afternoon, Police would also like to hear from anyone in the community who may have information about the earlier incident in Kopu around 2.30am on Saturday.

This can be provided directly to the Operation Strobe Team at Thames Police Station on 07 867 9609, or anonymously through the organisation CrimeStoppers, on 0800 555 111."

In a separate matter, Mr Page said Police were disappointed at some social media commentary containing speculative and inaccurate information about the incident, including allegations that officers from Thames were involved in the death of Mr Te Moananui.

"Such speculation is not only completely inaccurate, but is also extremely unhelpful in trying to building an accurate picture of what has occurred.

From the information we already have, I can confirm that no officers from Thames were involved in using firearms at any time during this incident.

I can also assure the community that there will be a very thorough and robust investigation into Saturday's tragic events."

Various investigations by Police and an investigation by the Independent Police Conduct Authority are continuing.

ENDS

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