Police in Rotorua have confirmed that 20-year-old Israel Jack was struck by at least two vehicles on Te Ngae Road on the morning of Sunday, August 18 and are renewing their appeal for information.
Police received reports at approximately 4.25am reporting that a man had been hit by a vehicle. That vehicle was at the scene when police arrived and has been examined.
Another driver approached Rotorua Police a couple of days later to advise that his vehicle had struck something on Te Ngae Road that morning. Having seen publicity about the location of Mr Jack’s death he made contact with Police. An examination of his vehicle has now confirmed it also struck Mr Jack.
From these examinations and witness reports Police believe Mr Jack was lying prone in the road when struck by both vehicles.
Senior Sergeant Brendon Keenan said: “There are still a number of questions that need answers; not least why he was lying in the road. We know he had walked approximately 6kms from town. Although intoxicated all witness information suggests he was sticking to the footpath. He was spoken to at the Caltex Service station at the intersection of Te Ngae Road and Owhata Road and also by a police officer in that same area. In both cases he appeared to be coherent and capable of completing the short walk home. One occasion when he was seen to rest he had done so safely sitting on the footpath. We need to establish why, so close to his destination, he would be lying prone in the road."
Police want to hear from anyone who saw Mr Jack that night who hasn't yet spoken with Police, or has any information that may assist the ongoing enquiries.
Mr Jack was wearing a black t-shirt with the letters L O W E R in large white script across the front. He was 5ft 8ins tall and athletic build with no noticebale tattoos.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Rotorua Police on 07 348 0099.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.