24 Aug 2015

Arrest warrant issued for Motueka driver

8:25 pm on 24 August 2015

Police in Nelson say an arrest warrant has been issued for Motueka man Jahdai Brice Kennard after he failed to appear in the Nelson District Court this morning.

Pah Street, Motueka, where shooting took place.

Pah Street, Motueka, where the shooting took place. Photo: RNZ/ Tracy Neal

Kennard is being sought in relation to last week's pursuit and shooting incident in Motueka, and was due to appear in court on unrelated assault charges and breaching court release conditions.

Police have said Kennard was driving the vehicle being chased, which ended with Ford Hurinui being shot by police in an armed stand-off.

Jahdai Brice Kennard

Jahdai Brice Kennard Photo: Supplied

Hurinui is still in Wellington Hospital's intensive care unit in a serious condition.

Nelson police said they had received a good response for help seeking Kennard and inquiries are continuing around the information received.

Detective Inspector Kevin Burke said, during the armed stand-off, Kennard ran away. Police have also made inquiries with family and known associates of Kennard to try to locate him.

He is believed to be driving a green 1995 BMW car, registration HHY596.

Inspector Burke said he was considered dangerous and should not be approached.

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