Search teams have located a boy’s body in the Waitarere beach area this afternoon.
The boy was spotted by helicopter around 1pm and was located shortly afterwards by a ground team.
Although it is still subject to a formal identification, Police have reason to believe this is Alex Fisher.
Manawatu Area Commander Inspector Sarah Stewart says this is an extremely sad outcome for everyone involved in the search for Alex:
“I visited the family of Alex to inform them this afternoon. They are obviously devastated at this development.
“While the cause of death has yet to be established, I can say that the circumstances are suspicious and police will now begin a homicide investigation.
“The area where the body was found has been cordoned off to allow a detailed forensic examination to take place.
“He will remain at the scene for the moment while this forensic examination takes place.
“This is devastating news for the family and all those involved in the search over the last three days.
“Obviously this is the worst outcome for everyone involved. We strongly ask media to respect the family's privacy at this time and not approach them or their address.
“I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in the search, including the community in Waitarere who have given us amazing support.
“There is now a considerable amount of work ahead for police as we begin our homicide investigation. This is likely to take some time as we build a picture of the events which have led to today's tragic outcome.
“We continue to need the public's help for any sightings of Alex and his brother Eric.
“I appreciate there will be many questions, however our focus now must be the homicide enquiry and the coronial process to follow which constrains us from providing further details at this time.” said Ms Stewart.
ENDS
Issued by Grant Ogilvie 021 191 0005.