Mystery remains as police seek killer, weapon, vehicle

No arrests have been made for the death of James Poto Whatuira.

A shooter and potential murder weapon remain a mystery following a killing in Woodville this month.

Police are investigating the January 4 death of James Poto Whatuira, 49, known to most as Poto.

The Pahiatua man was killed by a single gunshot wound and was found dead by police at a Woodville home.

A police spokeswoman said yesterday that no arrests had been made.

Inquiries were ongoing to locate the weapon used in what was believed to be a drug-related shooting.

Police said they were also keen to find a vehicle, described as a 2005 silver Ford Falcon XR6 Saloon, with the registration CRL12, but declined to name the car's owner.

The house at which Mr Whatuira's body was found was also the scene of a stabbing on October 23 last year.

A man received wounds to the abdomen and face, while another man suffered hand injuries.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Detective Constable Claire Adkins on (06) 210 2201.