Fire investigation needs to be thorough

Police investigating a fatal fire in Rotorua are still to establish what caused the blaze but say that there is nothing to date that supports reports that a Molotov cocktail was involved.

A teenage girl died in the Riri Street early on Sunday morning and a number of others were injured.

Detective Senior Sergeant Zane Smith said: "We fully appreciate that the family of the teenager who died and the wider community want to know what caused this fire. It has been a tragic loss of life and it is vital that we are thorough in our investigation.

"We can confirm that the fire started inside the building in the vicinity of some mechanical equipment. As yet no witness has confirmed the use of a Molotov cocktail and as yet no physical evidence has been found to support that theory. At this early to stage it is important that we work through the physical evidence and witness accounts and keep an open mind as to the cause."

Police still have a large number of people to speak who were present at either the fire or the earlier party. As previously stated the ages and physical and emotional well-being of witnesses have to be considered; a number of them are grieving and in shock. One 17-year-old witness remains in hospital and it is not clear yet when police will be able to speak with him.

Anyone with information about this fire is asked to contact Rotorua Police on 07 348 0099. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.