Police investigating the death of Israel Jack in Rotorua are trying to identify the driver of a truck who may be a crucial witness.
Mr Jack was found dead on Te Ngae Road approximately 4:25am on Sunday, 18 August having been struck by at least two vehicles while he was lying prone in the road. He had been seen alive at the Caltex service station approximately five minutes earlier, leaving a question unanswered as to how he covered 1.4km in that time.
Over the weeks since Mr Jack died, police have carried out hundreds of enquiries and continued to work their way through hours of security footage. From one security camera investigation team has now identified a 2 axle, single cab, flatbed commercial truck which was travelling along Te Ngae Road away from the airport towards the city.
Detective Senior Sergeant Zane Smith said: “This truck would have travelled past the location where Mr Jack died within the very small timeframe that we are interested in. That driver could have vital witness information, even if they don’t realise it, so it is equally vital that we find out who they are and speak to them.”
Police still want to hear from anyone who was on Te Ngae Road, Owhata Road or in and around the Te Ngae shopping centre between 4am and 5am on Sunday, 18 August.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Rotorua Police on 07 348 0099. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.
