A CCTV has revealed the identity of a man walking down Mt Albert’s Grande Avenue yesterday morning as a suspect that may be involved in a murder investigation into the death of Lena Zhang Harrap.
Police describe the man of interest as a dark-skinned, bald-haired man with a prominent forehead scar.
Lena Zhang Harrap, a 27-year-old woman who is often seen climbing out of the maung alone. She is said to have Down syndrome and visual impairment.
Authorities have reported that the man had left his home yesterday around 6 am and walked through the path of Richardson Rd from Jersey Ave before heading to Grande Ave, where he was probably seen on CCTV around 7.30 am.
The body of Harrap was found around 4:30 pm on Wednesday 22nd of September 2021, on a narrow road connecting Grande Ave and Summit Drive.
Aaron Pascoe a detective investigator has said in a statement, “Lena was a young lady, short in stature. She was vulnerable and targeted a vulnerable member of our community, criminal or criminal, that’s a terrible thing.”
“We are determined to get to the end of this investigation and identify the person or persons responsible for his death.”
The autopsy result has led the police to believe that Lena the 130cm tall woman was a murder victim.
Pascoe will continue to investigate the incident.
Tributes
Residents in her neighborhood have reacted to the sudden death of Lena Zhang Harrap.
Harrap was said to be heavily dependent on her neighborhood. Many people would often see her walking down Jersey Ave, Mount Albert, and New North Rd and would greet her.
Michelle McGee a resident of her neighbourhood said that Lena was
“a beautiful, fun and delightful soul”.
“My heart aches for him and his family right now.
She touched the lives of many people, like me and my children, with her mere presence or her soft-spoken lady.”
Harrap’s Lynfield College Alex Pervan also reacted following her sudden death.
“This is absolutely devastating news and our community is reconciling with that right now,” he told the UpsideDowns Herald.
“UpsideDowns is currently working on next steps with the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association and Auckland Down Syndrome Association.”
Alex also remembered Harrap’s talent for cooking class, gym training, and finding her own way somewhere.
Hes death shocked the disabled community.
Mt Albert residents reassured them that the police are doing everything they can to make them feel safe.
Pascoe added, “We know the local community will be shocked and upset. As a result, we have increased security patrols in the area and have our investigation personnel go door to door,”