Bay of Plenty murder a case of mistaken identity

Police are looking for sightings of this vehicle in relation to the death of David Kuka.
NZ POLICE/SUPPLIED

Police are looking for sightings of this vehicle in relation to the death of David Kuka.

A man who was shot execution-style in the Bay of Plenty earlier this year was not the intended victim, police say.

David Kuka, 52, was at his home on Wilrose Place in Gate Pa in February when he was shot in the head.

"Following extensive enquiries, police can now say that we believe the murder was a case of mistaken identity and 52-year-old Kuka was not believed to be the intended victim," Detective Inspector Lew Warne said in a statement.

Anyone with information can call Tauranga Police.
NZ POLICE/SUPPLIED

Anyone with information can call Tauranga Police.

"We know that he mainly kept to himself, working at a shop on occasion and carving items for family and friends.

"Sadly Mr Kuka was shot execution style and we believe this was premeditated and cowardly."

Police are looking for sightings of a silver vehicle that was seen in the area on February 11.

People with information can ring Tauranga Police on 07 577 4300 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.