Police are following "positive leads" in locating a person who shot a man dead in Hamilton today.
Officers were called about 6.20pm after reports of an altercation between several males.
Michael James Thompson, 29, was shot at close range and died a short time later at Waikato Hospital.
Senior Sergeant Pete van de Wetering said they were still searching for the person responsible, adding they were "following positive leads".
A statement earlier today advised Melville residents to be diligent in securing their properties and vehicles, but van de Wetering said this did not necessarily mean the offender posed a threat.
"It would be a big leap to automatically say that he's dangerous, but of course on the other hand we have got an incident where a firearm's been used, the person's yet to be found and nor has the firearm. So there certainly is an element of concern at the same time."
Thompson's next of kin had been informed and Victim Support and iwi liaison staff were providing assistance.
A St John Ambulance spokeswoman said Thompson was taken to Waikato Hospital just after 7pm in a critical condition. Police confirmed he died a short time later.
- additional reporting NZME.