Police are offering a $100,000 reward for information to help crack the death of an 88-year-old man in a suspicious house fire.
Gisborne man Ronald Russell Allison died in his home on January 25, 2013 and police are confident the fire was started intentionally.
Allison lived alone and had limited mobility. A forensic scene examination found the fire started in the kitchen and the wooden farmhouse was quickly razed to the ground.
Due to the seriousness of this matter Police is now offering this reward.
"Allison was a much-beloved family man, respected farmer, war veteran and well-regarded long-standing member of his community," says Eastern District Criminal Investigations Manager, Detective Inspector Rob Jones.
"We know there are still people who can help us finally solve this case. We are hoping with the passing of time these people now feel in a position to come forward and assist us."
The investigation team is interested in a blue-coloured Nissan March car that travelled from Tauranga to Matatā, Tāneatua and Ōpōtiki and then in the direction of Te Karaka in the hours leading up to the fire.
Police will pay up to $100,000 for information or evidence which leads to the conviction of anyone responsible for Allison’s death. This remains open until April 30, 2021.
Immunity from prosecution may be considered for any accomplice - not the main offender - who provides information or evidence to police.
Anyone with information should go to their nearest police station or call 0800 COLD CASE.
You can also email operationpuha@police.govt.nz or call 105 and quote file number 130125/3212.
