Police silent on shooting victim’s P claim

POLICE are refusing to confirm reports a man fatally shot by officers in Auckland was under the influence of methamphetamine at the time.

Jerrim Toms died after 12 bullets were fired by two officers near Pohuehue, north Auckland. His family say four of the bullets hit Toms, one in the back.

Police say the 29-year-old was shot at close range in the March 31 incident, as he approached officers wielding a machete.

Media reports yesterday said toxicology testing had confirmed Toms had methamphetamine in his system when he died, and he had an amount of the drug with him at the time.

Police earlier said they believed drugs ‘‘may’’ have been a factor in Toms’ death.

However, a police spokesperson would not confirm the reports.

This week police also revealed they have footage of the moment Toms was fatally shot – but said they’re not in a position to release it.

Detective Inspector John Sutton said on Wednesday officers had received footage from the police Eagle helicopter of the shooting, and other CCTV footage of Toms, pictured, and his car on the day he died.

‘‘This footage is being analysed by three separate inquiries, namely the criminal investigation in relation to the shooting of Jerrim Toms, the Independent Police Conduct Authority investigation and a police Practices, Policies and Procedures review,’’ Sutton said.