Tribute to ‘cheeky and big-hearted’ man killed after driver fled police in Far North

Relatives paid tribute to the man who died in an accident after the driver with whom the police was traveling fled in the Far North yesterday.

The man, named Justin Murray on the Potahi Marae Facebook pages, was a passenger in a car involved in a police chase in the early hours.

Police began following the vehicle in downtown Kaitaia around 1.20am, but soon gave up their pursuit due to speed and driving.

Northland District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill said the car crashed into a power pole on a country road shortly after.

Murray, also known as Jah, was in the back seat and died at the scene.

The driver and one other passenger were seriously injured and two other passengers sustained moderate to minor injuries.

The police are investigating the cause of the accident. The Independent Police Conduct Authority has also been notified.

Yesterday, Rosie Conrad posted a post about Murray’s death on the marae’s Facebook page.

“This morning we received the heartbreaking news that our tamaiti, Justin Murray, was killed in an accident,” he wrote.

“Justin will not be released until the apopo of Whangarei and then he will head home. We will post the times and dates once they are finalized.”

Murray’s sister posted a family photo and tribute.

“It’s still hard to believe that you won’t be there bothering me every day and being the biggest threat at every party we take,” he wrote.

“You have supported me since the day and have continued to do so until your last breath.

“I love you and I miss you very much my brother.”

His other sister wrote: “I love you brother” on her own page.

Another family member said her heart was “breaking.”

Others also posted messages and tributes to Murray, described as a “cheeky” with the “biggest heart.”

They were shocked by the news of her death and a friend said it “doesn’t feel real.”

Some friends and family had seen Murray hours before his death.

“I didn’t know that last night would be the last time I would see him,” one person said.

Another posted: “We were having good stories last night … we even planned to do a paua dive today.”

“Good luck last drink with him last night and good update … never forgotten,” said another.

Another relative also shared his feelings on social media.

“My heart is so broken for all of you and I know you are hurting,” she wrote to Murray’s immediate family.

“I’m totally lost for words … I love you all so much and I wish I could be there to hold you all so tight.

“Rest in peace Jah.”