26 Jun 2023

Second person arrested for Korrey Whyman murder

9:06 pm on 26 June 2023
Korrey Whyman, 28, died in Kawerau three days after being shot in Rotorua on 25 September, 2022.

Korrey Whyman, 28, died in Kawerau three days after being shot in Rotorua on 25 September. Photo: Supplied / Police

A second person has been arrested for the murder of Korrey Whyman in September 2022.

Korrey Whyman, 28, was shot inside a vehicle as it travelled on State Highway 33 towards Mourea on 25 September 2022.

She was rushed to hospital but died from her head injuries.

A 22-year-old man has been charged with Whyman's murder and also faces two charges of discharging a firearm with reckless disregard in relation to other victims involved in the incident.

He is due to appear in Rotorua District Court on Tuesday.

A 31-year-old man was already before the courts for Whyman's murder and associated firearms charges.

He was next due to appear in Rotorua District Court on 28 July.

Detective Inspector Lindsay Pilbrow said the latest arrest was a result of police focusing on key forensic examinations and witness information.

"The arrest also brings significant relief to Korrey's family, who have struggled to deal with her death since September last year.

"I'm also incredibly grateful to members of the public who have helped provide a clearer picture of the events which led to Korrey's death."

Pilbrow said a number of people have direct knowledge of the murder but have been uneasy about coming forward.

"We're hoping that the latest arrest will help make coming forward to police easier."

Police were not ruling out further charges in relation to a dark-blue Toyota Hilux king-cab ute, believed to be used by those involved in Whyman's death, that was found burnt out on Braemer Reserve on 27 September.

Pilbrow said they were also not ruling out charges relating to anyone actively assisting those responsible for Whyman's death - "whether it be disposing of or hiding evidence, or intentionally providing false information".

People with information can contact police on 105 - either by calling or online using 'Update Report' and referencing file number 220925/5119.

Information can be passed anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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