Police arrest and charge 13 year old with murder

A 13-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with the murder of his caregiver near rural Okoki in northern Taranaki.

Detective Senior Sergeant Grant Coward, New Plymouth CIB, said that the 13-year-old, who is not related to the victim but is known to her, will appear in the New Plymouth District Court tomorrow.

Police are unable to release the name tonight of the 50-year-old female victim who died following the shooting in her home.

“We are working through the processes of notifying the victim’s next of kin and family members in this very sad situation,” he said. “There is still significant investigative work to do in our inquiry including extensive scene and forensic examinations which will continue tomorrow.

“Police are also appealing for sightings of a four door white 1993 Ford Telstar car which was driven from the victim’s home and stopped by police in Waitara late this afternoon. We would like to hear from people who saw this car travelling between the remote settlement of Okoki and Waitara between 3.30pm and 5.30pm tonight.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Coward said that police were advised shortly after 3.30pm that the 50 year old woman had died at the scene.

Police and other emergency services responded. The house remains guarded overnight as part of a full scene examination which will continue in the coming days. The woman’s body will be recovered during that scene examination and a post mortem will be held.

“We have a lot more inquiry work to do, and people can help us with sightings of the car.

“This is a stressful and emotional time for people who were present at the house, and others in the community.”

No further details are available tonight.

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