Rotorua police recover vehicle used in Mourea homicide, seek sightings to identify offender

"Do the right thing and contact police."
"Do the right thing and contact police." Photo credit: NZ Police

Rotorua police have recovered the vehicle used in the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Korrey Whyman, and now police want to know the vehicle's movements.

Late last month, police launched a homicide investigation after Whyman was shot dead in Mourea. 

Police recovered a two-door Toyota Hilux in Braemar Road, Rotoma last week - where forensic testing is being undertaken. 

Detective Inspector Lindsay Pilbrow said in a statement the vehicle was used to shoot Whyman from. 

"The vehicle has links back to Rotoiti and we believe it has been used recently by people who live or stay in this area."

Police are now asking anyone who lives in the Rotoiti area and has seen the vehicle around the community to come forward. 

Anyone with information can contact police by calling 105 quoting file number 220925/5119. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Det Insp Pilbrow added that Whyman's family are devastated by her death and police are working to find out who is responsible for killing her.

Det Insp Pilbrow said police have executed a number of search warrants in the Rotoiti area this week in relation to their investigation. 

"Firearms, stolen property and drugs were all located during the course of these searches.  Three arrests were made and these persons will be facing a number charges in respect of these items."

Det Insp Pilbrow is confident residents in the Rotoiti community have knowledge of the fatal incident. 

"[They] will likely know the identity of the person or persons involved in this tragic incident. We ask them to do the right thing and contact police."