Shooting in Bay of Plenty District, 7:00pm

Police are continuing an investigation into the shooting of a 12 yr old Wairakei boy in Wairakei in the early hours of the morning today.

We are now able to confirm that the shot was to the boy's face and the injury is consistent with an air rifle pellet injury.

The victim is recovering at the Rotorua hospital and it is believed that the slug from the rifle has entered and exited the boys face. He will remain in hospital for observations for a further day or two and is being supported by his family.

Tomorrow, Taupo Police will speak to two members of the boys family about the incident and at this stage they are not seeking anyone else regarding the shooting. It is believed that the incident occurred in or near the boys home at about 1.00 - 2.00am this morning.

Given that interviews are pending, Police will not make further comment as to what has happened as it would be entirely speculative.

They can confirm however, that a search warrant was conducted on the home of the family and that an air rifle and slug pellets have been recovered.

Given the victims age, and current family wishes, he will not be named.
A further release will be made only once these interviews have taken place.