“Father Killed in Gang-Related Shooting: Remembering Hori Gage, a Loving Parent with a Big Heart”

A young father and Mongrel Mob member, Hori Gage, was tragically killed in Palmerston North after days of escalating gang tensions. Described as a loving parent with a big heart, Gage was known for his kindness and goofy laugh. Police are still searching for his killer and have invoked new legislation to disrupt gang activity. shooting/GWCLHX73EVDVBB3AHFYYFY5ISI/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Melissa Nightingale reported

A close friend of the young father who was tragically killed in Palmerston North last weekend amidst escalating tensions among gangs has spoken out about his character. Hori Gage, a member of the Mongrel Mob, was fatally shot in broad daylight on Sunday. The police were notified after reports of a gunshot, but unfortunately, Gage passed away shortly after. Described by a friend who wished to remain anonymous, Gage was known as an exceptional young man. She expressed her disbelief and said, “This should never have happened,” in an interview with the Herald.

Gage was devoted to his children and partner, and his love for them was immeasurable. According to his friend, he possessed kindness, gentleness, and had a heart that was larger than life itself. She fondly mentioned his infectious laugh, which she described as the “goofiest.” Gage was someone who embraced life fully and without regrets. He was the epitome of a person that anyone would be fortunate to become. His friend summarized his character as someone who radiated positive energy and good vibes.

The sudden loss of Gage has left his loved ones devastated. Many have taken to social media to pay tribute to him. A service to honor his life will be held at a marae near Taupō. One person wrote, “RIP our Hori, we love you, fly high boy,” while others expressed their grief over the tremendous loss suffered by his children and partner, stating that he was taken away far too soon. One tribute referred to Gage as a “west coast warrior,” acknowledging his strength and bravery. Another person shared their heartfelt emotions, stating that Gage was their very first best friend and that the memories they shared in such a short period of time will be cherished forever.

As the investigation into Gage’s death continues, the police are actively searching for his killer. Manawatū Area Commander Inspector Ross Grantham has confirmed that the police are interested in speaking with multiple individuals, although they are not necessarily considered suspects. The purpose of these conversations is to rule them out as potential suspects.

Gage’s tragic death occurred amid a weekend filled with heightened tension in Palmerston North. A clash between gangs resulted in a Black Power member being de-patched and having his finger severed in a revenge-fueled attack. However, Gage is not thought to have been involved in the incident that took place on Friday night outside a bar on Main St. This altercation, which involved a car intentionally running over an individual, was reportedly sparked by a retaliatory action for the killing of Mongrel Mob member Raniel Kiu in May. Kiu, who was found severely injured at a property on Dahlia St, later passed away in the hospital.

Meanwhile, the police have invoked new legislation designed to disrupt gang activities. Officers now have the power to search vehicles and individuals suspected of being associated with gangs, as well as seize their weapons during times of conflict. This legislation, known as the Criminal Activity Intervention Legislation Act 2023, came into effect in April. It has already been utilized on at least three occasions, resulting in the arrests of three men in Feilding who were found in possession of weapons.

According to Inspector Grantham, progress is being made in the homicide investigation, and the police are urging the public to come forward with any information related to a vehicle of interest—a white 2005 Nissan Teana with the registration HLQ924. The police can be contacted at 105, quoting file number 230806/2952. Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Melissa Nightingale, a Wellington-based reporter who specializes in crime, justice, and news in the capital, contributed to this article. She has been a journalist for a decade and joined the Herald in 2016..