Update on Tumunui Rd death

A Police investigation is continuing into the discovery of a body in a burning car in Tumunui Rd, just south of Rotorua, on Saturday morning.

The officer in charge of the investigation, Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Loper, says a post mortem was completed in Auckland yesterday, however, unfortunately due to the severe burns suffered, tests were unable to confirm whether the deceased was male or female.

“We are still treating this incident as suspicious until further testing proves otherwise, and we are continuing to explore all avenues.

“We are now awaiting the results of further DNA testing which should provide us with further information. We expect to receive these results in approximately six days.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Loper says Police have received information about a missing person, who lives outside Rotorua, who may be involved.

“We have spoken to friends and family of this person, and we will continue to work with them as the investigation and further testing progresses.

“We appreciate there is some interest in this incident, however, we are simply not at a point where we can provide any further information about the investigation or this potential missing person, without confirming critical details. It would be irresponsible to approach it in any other way.”

There will be no further update from Police until DNA results are received next week.