New Zealand Police Alert 1:00pm 5 Dec 2008 Bay of Plenty

Location of incident: Taupo

Incident type: Media Release

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

Interviews with two family members were conducted at Taupo this morning.

The results from this are that a 16 year old brother of the victim will be referred to the Taupo Police Youth Aid section regarding Careless Use of a Firearm, this being an air rifle. Further inquiries are yet to be finalised over the next couple of days and this includes speaking with the Victim on receipt of Hospital advice that he can participate.

The 43 yr old father of both boys has been arrested and charged with Cultivating Cannabis that was located by Police when an earlier search warrant was executed. He will appear on this charge in the Taupo District Court on Wednesday the 10th December 2008.

Given the victim's age, and relationship to the youth offender and his progression through the Youth Aid system, Police will not be naming any of the family members concerned as this will identify the offender and victim.

No further Police commentary will be made now that these matters are before the relevant courts and jurisdictions.

I can say however that 'the importance of the supervision of youths when handling or using any firearm cannot be overstated. This is an example where only through sheer luck, a significantly more serious injury and resulting consequences was avoided.'

Thank you for your assistance.

ENDS

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