To be attributed to Detective Inspector Lew Warner, Bay of Plenty Field Crime Manager:
Police are continuing to investigate a suspicious, fatal crash that occurred on State Highway 35 opposite the Raukokore Marae, near Te Kaha, on Saturday afternoon.
As part of their enquiries, Police have now located a burnt-out, white Honda vehicle near the banks of the Raukokore River, a short distance from where Don Henry Turei Junior died.
Police would like to speak to anyone who has knowledge about this vehicle, how it came to be burnt out, or saw the vehicle driving in the area around 2-3pm on Saturday.
We are also interested in talking to anyone who was driving on SH35 near Ruakokore between 12pm and 4pm on Saturday 26 November 2016.
Mr Turei and his brother, both riding motorbikes, had left a family wedding at Raukokere Church and were on their way to the wedding reception when the crash occurred.
It is believed that Mr Turei was hit by a white Honda, which immediately left the scene of the crash.
Police would also like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the crash, or anyone who believes they may have information that would help with our investigation.
Please contact Bay of Plenty Police on 07 349 9554 if you can help.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre