30 Nov 2020

Police seek Desmond Bourne after man found dead in car

5:39 pm on 30 November 2020

Police are searching for a man in relation to a murder investigation after an incident in Wellsford on Saturday.

Police search for Desmond Lawrence Bourne

Desmond Lawrence Bourne is wanted for murder. Photo: NZ Police

A man in his 30s was found dead in a vehicle on Wayby Station Road after a gunshot injury.

While police investigate, they are appealing for information relating to the whereabouts of Desmond Lawrence Bourne, 45.

There is a warrant for his arrest and he is wanted for murder in relation to this matter.

He is considered "dangerous and should not be approached," police said, urging the public to call 111 immediately upon sighting him.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts was urged to contact Waitematā Crime Squad on 09 839 0697 or anonymously to Crimestoppers by phoning 0800 555 111.

Detective Inspector Scott Beard said the victim and the offender were known to each other and this was not being treated as a random attack.

"Police want to reassure the public that we have a team of dedicated staff working tirelessly on this case and our priority is locating Desmond Bourne as quickly as possible.

"We also want to acknowledge the members of the public who initially contacted Police on Saturday night, as well as over the weekend with information around sightings of the black Range Rover (registration KBK990) linked to this incident."

A post-mortem is taking place today and police are providing support to family and friends of the deceased.