Name release: Kawerau shooting

Statement attributable to Detective Inspector Mark Loper:
 
Police can now release the name of the man who died following a shooting in Kawerau on Thursday 21 February.  
 
He was 29-year-old Astin Cruz Hooper of Te Teko. 
 
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing. 
 
The family of the deceased have asked for privacy at this time and request that media not contact them. 
 
Police investigating the shooting are continuing to ask for any witnesses to the incident to come forward. 
 
Investigators believe there would have been a number of people travelling on the rural roads between Kawerau and Edgecumbe on Thursday morning between 9am and 10.30am who would have seen the incident and may have dash cam footage from when they have driven past the incident as it unfolded. 
 
Anyone with information or footage is asked to contact Rotorua Police on 07 349 9400. Information can also be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 
 
ENDS 
 
Issued by Police Media Centre.