Missing woman’s family sets up search
Breanna Muriwai’s family are taking the search for her into their own hands and appealing to the public for help to find their missing family member.
Muriwai has not been seen or heard from since August 28 when she was reportedly seen running into the darkness of Te Horo Beach in the early hours.
Her handbag and cellphone were recovered the next day — and although police are speaking with two men in relation to her disappearance, there are too many unanswered questions to conclusively say what happened to her.
For now, the 22-year-old’s disappearance is “unexplained”, but Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thompson told the Herald the chances of her walking through the door were now “incredibly remote”.
Muriwai’s mother, Jasmin Gray, is desperate to bring her home. She told Ten 7 Aotearoa she knew something was wrong when Muriwai stopped contacting her the weekend she disappeared — more than three months ago.
“We just knew when we didn’t get anything back from her that weekend, we knew something was wrong. This is out of character. You know your kids — their patterns, their habits — this isn’t her.”
Gray is organising a search party beginning tomorrow morning at Horseshoe Bend Reserve, Tokomaru.
Thompson told the Herald police had already searched extensively in the areas of Kimberley Reserve, O¯ taki Main Rd, Hyde Park, Te Horo Sea Rd beach access, Peka Peka and the former Marycrest school area — places she was seen on the weekend before her disappearance.
Gray has asked for volunteers to bring identification, hydration, appropriate footwear and clothing, cellphones and cameras.
“We really appreciate everyone’s support,” Gray said.
“We’re feeling positive and hopeful and so grateful for the support of the community.”
For those who want to help Gray and her wha¯nau but are not able to attend the search, there is a Givealittle page where people can donate.
The funds will be used to support Muriwai’s family in their search and investigation into her disappearance.
“We just want her home, that’s all.”
The Herald has approached police for further comment.