44-year-old John Atkins fatally shot during hunting trip; Gisborne man charged with unlawful firearm possession, investigation ongoing.

44-year-old Tolaga Bay resident John Atkins was fatally shot during a hunting trip on Tauwhareparae Road. The incident occurred on Saturday at 10:30 PM, and he died in the hospital hours later. A 39-year-old Gisborne man has been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm in relation to the incident, set to reappear in court on September 9th. Police are supporting Atkins' family and continuing their investigation into the circumstances.