The Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) has completed its report into
the accidental shooting of a 17-year-old courier driver on an Auckland
motorway.
Halatau Naitoko was shot dead in January 2009 when he was caught in crossfire
as police chased Stephen McDonald along the northwestern motorway.
McDonald and another man, Richard Neville, were also shot by police in the
incident.
McDonald was being pursued by police after he had threatened members of the
public and police with a firearm, fired at the police helicopter and at pursuing
officers, and stolen vehicles and other property at gunpoint.
He was sentenced to 13 years jail in 2009.
The IPCA's draft investigation report has been given to the Police
Commissioner, to allow officers and staff to comment on the findings and
recommendations.
IPCA chair Justice Lowell Goddard says the investigation was one of the most
intricate and complex ever undertaken by the authority.
"The circumstances of Mr Naitoko's death were tragic and his loss remains a
source of huge grief for his family," Justice Goddard said in a statement.
"I have personally kept in regular contact with his mother and other family
throughout this extensive investigation and have been acutely aware of their
need for resolution to this case," she said.
The Police Commissioner has been asked to respond to the draft report by
March 9.
Last year coroner Gordon Matenga concluded the shooting was a tragic accident
but criticised aspects of the police operation while deeming the two officers
who fired shots were justified in doing so.
Police decided not to lay charges against the officer who fired the fatal
shot.
NZN