14 July 2006

Operation Red Rocks Seeks Vehicle Sightings

New Zealand Police National News Release

Police investigating the death of Karori man Tony Stanlake are asking for public help in tracking the recent movements of a dark blue Subaru Legacy sedan.

The car, a 1995 model with the registration number DAB151, was seized by police in Wainuiomata on Wednesday.

"We'd like to find out further information about this car, where it has been in the greater Wellington area, and people who have been associated with it," said Detective Inspector Mike Arnerich, head of the Operation Red Rocks investigation team.

"Information about the car could help advance our inquiry."

Detective Inspector Arnerich said police hope to complete the Owhiro Bay scene examination today and open the coastal walkway in time for weekend recreational users.

"There's a lot of work still to do be done before this investigation is over. We're yet to find Tony's hands, the weapons used in his death, his upper body clothing and any other property he may have had with him."

Police also want to hear more about Mr Stanlake and his day to day activities. The last confirmed sighting of him alive was at Bunnings Warehouse in Adelaide Road, Newtown, at 12.13pm on Thursday. His body was found at Owhiro Bay beach near Red Rocks three days later.

Detective Inspector Arnerich says forensic examinations will continue over the weekend at other scenes including the Happy Valley Landfill and Mr Stanlake's Lancaster Street home.

"It's a big job and requires a slow and detailed approach," he said. "Crime scenes always tell a tale. We're now into the hard investigative phase trying to piece together when, why and how Tony Stanlake died.

"We're certain more than one person was involved, and, with public help and good old fashioned detective work we want this homicide solved."

People with information are asked to call the police hotline on: 0508 733 762 or 0508 Red Rocks.

ENDS

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