Friends and family of man shot in Whanganui gang killing stay at church overnight, armed police presence remains

Gang colours near scene of killing in Whanganui

Family, friends and the partner of the 27-year-man shot dead in a suspected gang killing in Whanganui yesterday have stayed overnight at a church close to the scene.

A man, who wanted to remain unnamed, said they've gathered at the Māori Fellowship Church to be "close to their brother."

Police are hoping to return the man's body to whānau today after a forensic examination is complete.

Police say the shooting was not a random attack and those involved were known to each other.

Armed police remain on Puriri Street, with a blue tarpaulin covering parts of the property when the incident unfolded.

The victim is believed to be a Mongrel Mob member, and was fatally shot yesterday morning in the suburb of Castlecliff.

Police are hunting those involved, and say the public is not at risk.

Police say the shooter is still on the loose, but there is no immediate threat to the public.

Police have confirmed the shooting was not a random attack. Those involved were known to each other and all had gang connections.

Extra police have been brought in from other North Island centres. 

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