Taser used before shooting

A taser was used by police before an officer fatally shot Adam Morehu in New Plymouth early on Saturday.

A post mortem examination on Morehu's body is now complete, and results have identified two fatal gun shot wounds to his torso, police said.

"In order to prevent any further speculation I can confirm that a taser was deployed prior to Mr Morehu being shot by Police," Central District Commander Superintendent Russell Gibson said.

"The findings from the post mortem are important to the overall investigation. These results along with the scene examination and reconstruction of events will in time provide us with a full understanding of what took place that morning."

The scene examination is continuing today at the golf course, and police are still speaking to witnesses to piece together the events which led up to the fatal shooting.

"It's vital we cover off every detail and speak to all of the witnesses involved.

"The three-part investigation is expected to take some time and in addition to the coronial and policy and processes investigations there is an inquiry underway by the Independent Police Conduct Authority which should reassure the public that this incident will be overseen objectively," Mr Gibson said.

"The investigations are an important part of determining that Police have acted appropriately and we are continuing to work closely with the Morehu family to keep them updated as the investigation progresses."

 

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