A missing vehicle belonging to the victim in a Pahiatua homicide investigation has been located in Rotorua today, police say.
A homicide investigation was launched after the woman was found dead near a school on Arthur Street yesterday.
Police found the deceased woman after officers were called to a residential address at around 4.40pm.
Police were earlier seeking sightings of a red, late-model Mitsubishi ASX VRX station wagon with the registration QGU91, which was taken from the woman’s address.
Now, after locating the vehicle, police are working to identify who the driver was.
Detective Senior Sergeant David Thompson said: “We hope the public can help us with and need to hear from anyone who saw this car travelling the central North Island, between Pahiatua and Rotorua.”
Those with information were asked to call 105.
“If you think you saw this vehicle, please speak with us as you may have information that’s invaluable to the investigation.”
Earlier, Thompson said a scene guard was in place at the Pahiatua property, and residents could expect to see an ongoing police presence over the coming days as inquiries continued.
Tararua College, which is located adjacent to where the incident occurred, said on Facebook the surrounding area will be cordoned off.
The school said senior leadership will be on-site to guide students safely into the school away from the cordoned area. Buses would not enter the school’s bus bay.
“The police have assured us there is no threat to the community at this time,” the post said.
Thompson said police have worked with the school to provide reassurance and alternate routes for students to enter and exit.
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