Waikato Police investigating Friday's fatal shooting of a 29-year-old Hamilton man say their investigation is progressing well and they are appreciative of the support they have been receiving from the local community.
District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Karl Thornton, said the scene examination of the Norrie St address was completed over the weekend and the property has been returned to the occupants.
"A post-mortem examination on the body of Michael James THOMPSON was completed in Auckland yesterday and an area canvass involving members of the Operation Botany inquiry team speaking to local residents, and witnesses to Friday's shooting, is continuing.
"Our team is working closely with Mr THOMPSON'S family and we have released his body to them to return to Tokoroa today. Victim Support has already been assisting the family and I have passed on the condolences of NZ Police to them. At this point the family have asked that their privacy be respected."
In confirming the investigation team have identified persons of interest in relation to the ongoing homicide investigation, Mr Thornton said officers are also evaluating any risks to the public.
"At this time all I can say is that we are making progress in terms of locating these persons and I would like to say to them that they should consider contacting Police."
Mr Thornton said a large and varied group have been involved in the investigation from when the shooting took place to where it has progressed to so far.
"This includes ambulance and fire staff, members of the Waikato and Bay of Plenty Armed Offenders Squads, detectives, photographers, Public Safety Team staff and forensic specialists from both the Police and ESR.
"At this point we would like to reiterate earlier calls for anyone who was in the area at the time of the shooting and saw or heard anything suspicious, or, who has knowledge on the identities and locations of persons involved to make contact with the Operation Botany investigation team on 07 858 6200."
Alternatively, Mr Thornton said information can be left anonymously with the independent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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Note to media; due to operational constraints no commentary is intended to be made outside of the above release until such time as the matters have been progressed.