29 Dec 2024

Body found near Ōhope Beach believed to be man who fled police

9:20 am on 29 December 2024
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Photo: RNZ / Sarah Robson

The police say a body found near Ōhope Beach overnight is likely to be the man who fled from them on Christmas Day.

Formal identification of the body, which was found near the mouth of the harbour, is still underway.

Police were called to a family harm case at Ōhope Beach on Wednesday evening.

When officers arrived, a 48-year-old Whakatāne man jumped into the harbour and refused to come out, instead swimming into the outgoing tide.

Members of the public tried to help with paddleboards, kayaks and a boat, and the National Dive Squad, Coastguard and rescue helicopters were deployed

The police say the death will be referred to the Coroner.

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