Police investigating the homicide of a Northland woman are appealing to the public for information about the movements of her vehicle in the hours before and after her death.
Tārati (Dorothy) Buckley was found dead at a property in New Zealand’s Far North during the early hours of June 2. Authorities immediately launched a homicide investigation, and a 26-year-old man was charged with murder later that same day.
As the investigation continues, police have released an image of Buckley’s Toyota RAV4, which carried the distinctive registration plate “DOTSKA.”
The vehicle was discovered burned out on Ounuwhao Road, near Dargaville, shortly after 9:10 a.m. on June 1.
Detective Inspector Rhys Johnston said investigators are particularly interested in tracing the vehicle’s movements between the Whirinaki and Kaikohe areas overnight on May 31 and into the morning of June 1.
“We are seeking any information on the movements of the vehicle between the Whirinaki and Kaikohe areas between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m.,” Johnston said.
Police believe the vehicle later travelled south, passing through Kawakawa at approximately 6:50 a.m. on June 1 before continuing through the Maungatapere and Dargaville areas.
Investigators are urging anyone who may have seen the vehicle during those times, or who has relevant dashcam footage, to come forward.
Police say public assistance could play a crucial role in helping establish the vehicle’s movements and advancing the ongoing homicide investigation.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police.
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