Homicide investigation launched after teen dies of gunshot wound in South Auckland

A homicide investigation is underway after a teenager died of a gunshot wound suffered on New Year’s Day.

Police in South Auckland confirmed a 19-year-old was shot while in a vehicle on Addington Avenue in Manurewa in the early hours of Monday.

He was rushed to hospital in a critical condition but died in hospital, police said today.

A second teenager, aged 17, also suffered a gunshot and remains in a critical condition.

Detective Karen Bright, of Counties Manukau Police, said a scene examination was completed yesterday.

“Our focus is now on establishing the circumstances surrounding the incident and supporting both victims’ families at this difficult time.

A vehicle in the middle of the road appears to be a key focus for police investigating an incident in Manurewa. Photo / Dean Purcell

“We know this will have been a shock to the community,” she said.

“However, we would like to reassure them this appears to be an isolated incident.”

Bright said police were not yet in a position to release the name of the young man killed, but would do so in due course.

Authorities are appealing to the public who may have been in or around Addington Ave on the evening of New Year’s Eve (Sunday) to about 3.30am on January 1.

They are particularly interested in anyone who may have dashcam footage that could help in their investigation.

Police and emergency services were called to the scene about 3.20am.

Police said at the time two people had been found inside a car unresponsive and taken to hospital.

Officers in jump suits, masks and gloves were later seen examining a car in the middle of the street as armed police stood guard at the top of the road, where a large cordon had been placed.

One Addington Ave resident said people had been partying and letting off fireworks on the street all evening.

“We didn’t hear anything because people were letting off flares in the street,” he said.

“The first we heard of what happened was waking up and seeing the crime scene outside your door.”

Can you help? Anyone with information is urged to contact Police on 105 or CrimeStoppers Anonymous on 0800 555 111