Police search for motel murderer
‘‘You often see Black Power members walking up and down the street when you drive past ... That motel has become a real eyesore. It’s unkept and in disrepair. ’’
Taupō police are calling on the public to help with their investigation into the murder of 30-year-old Ryan Whare Woodford at the Adelphi Motel last Sunday morning.
They are also investigating the discharge of a firearm at a Tauhara Rd home on Sunday night, the same day Woodford was killed, but said it’s too early to link the two incidents.
Police were called about 6.30am on Sunday to the Adelphi Motel on the corner of Kaimanawa and Heuheu streets following a report of a man being injured.
There they found a man with critical injuries, and although efforts were made to save him, he died at the scene.
An employee at the motel, who asked not to be named, said the incident was a stabbing and that Woodford and his children had been living there since December.
‘‘He was a good guy, a really nice guy,’’ said the worker, who then hung up.
The Tauhara Rd incident happened just before 10.30pm on Sunday and involved a firearm being discharged at a residential property, but no one was injured.
It is understood that police had been called to the motel about 40 times over the past 14 months, and it was being used for emergency housing by the Ministry of Social Development.
A Taupō woman, who asked not to be named, said the motel was near schools and she was worried about youngsters being harassed as they walked home.
‘‘You often see Black Power members walking up and down the street when you drive past ... That motel has become a real eyesore. It’s unkept and in disrepair.’’
She had also seen people fighting on the street with baseball bats and weapons.
Ministry of Social Development regional commissioner Mike Bryant said staff were ‘‘very concerned’’ about the incident.
’’Our deep sympathies go out to all the whānau affected by Sunday’s tragic event.
‘‘We have conducted welfare checks with all whānau at the other makeshift motel and are assisting those who wish to move. Some have elected to stay.’’
Bryant said he was aware of the issues raised by locals and took their concerns seriously.
‘‘Most people who are supported with emergency housing are trying to do the best they can for themselves and their family and are respectful of the accommodation provided, other guests and the local community.’’
Taupō CIB acting area manager Detective Sergeant Andy Livingstone said he wanted to acknowledge the efforts made by residents of the motel who came to the aid of Woodford and promptly called emergency services for help.
‘‘We understand the events of Sunday are both concerning and unsettling for our community.’’
He said police would like to speak with anyone who saw any vehicles, specifically anyone who saw a vehicle arrive at and leave the Adelphi Motel around 6.30am on Sunday, or in Tauhara Rd about 10.30pm Sunday night.
Livingstone said anyone who had information relevant to either matter could call 105 and quote Operation Dell, Taupō.
Alternatively, information could be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on (0800) 555 111.