Trinity Catholic College pupil Enere McLaren-Taana, 16, died after being rushed to hospital following an assault at the city’s bus hub on Thursday last week.
In an update sent to the school community, Trinity Catholic College principal Kate Nicholson warned pupils against naming the 13-year-old boy charged with Enere’s murder. The boy appeared in the Dunedin Youth Court last Friday and was granted name suppression.
"We are aware that names and photos of the alleged perpetrator are being talked about, and circulating, on social media and within chat groups across the city.
"The alleged perpetrator has been granted name suppression by the courts.
The warning from Ms Nicholson came after the Otago Daily Times saw the name of the alleged killer and threats towards him in comments on TikTok.
In the update, Ms Nicholson also thanked the school community for the outpouring of support following Enere’s death.
"Our college values have been truly reflected in the way that our teenagers and their parent community have rallied around those who need support," she said.
She thanked the large contingent of pupils, staff and parents who came together at short notice for a haka for Enere as his body was returned to Hope and Sons funeral home on Saturday.
It comes as Enere has been remembered by family in a death notice as a "treasured uncle, cousin, brother and friend to many".
The funeral for the 16-year-old will be held on Tuesday.
The Trinity Catholic College pupil was described in the notice as the "forever loved son of John and Tui".
"Our handsome young man has been taken too soon. Be kind, caring and loving towards one another."
The funeral will be held at First Church, but would be a "private farewell" because of the venue’s limited capacity.
"All are welcome to join us via the live-stream link, which can be found on Enere’s page at www.tributes.co.nz."
