The Bay of Plenty town of Te Puke is in shock following the tragic death of 29-year-old Tristan Oakes, who died from critical injuries sustained in a shooting at his home on Saturday, October 25, 2025. The incident has sparked a major homicide investigation and a region-wide manhunt for two men now identified as persons of interest.
Emergency services were called to Oakes’ residence shortly after 8:30 p.m., where he was found with life-threatening injuries. He was rushed to Tauranga Hospital, but despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his wounds later that night.
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Authorities have named 39-year-old Kanan Clarke and 40-year-old Joseph Yorke as persons of interest. Both are considered dangerous, and police have urged the public not to approach them but to report any sightings immediately. Armed officers and the Armed Offenders Squad (AOS) have been deployed across the Bay of Plenty region, including Te Puke, Tauranga, and Rotorua, while several properties linked to the suspects have been searched.
Police have stated that the victim and suspects were known to each other and that the shooting was not random, though the motive remains under investigation. Detective Inspector Lindsay Pilbrow emphasized the priority of public safety and the ongoing efforts to locate those responsible.
Friends and family describe Tristan Oakes as a kind-hearted and hardworking young man, loved by those around him. “He had a big heart and was always there for his mates,” a close friend said. Residents of Te Puke expressed disbelief that such violence could occur in their normally peaceful community.
Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity near Oakes’ home or who has CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward. Clarke and Yorke may be traveling together and could be armed. Tips can be reported to New Zealand Police at 105 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
Tributes to Tristan have begun appearing online and at the scene, with friends and family leaving flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages in his memory. Social media posts describe him as loyal, warm, and full of life, leaving the community grieving his untimely death.